Sampson Would Oust 3 Players Critical of Him

Along with putting the ball in the net and defending against headers in the box, freedom of speech apparently has become an obsolete concept on the U.S. national soccer team.

On the day after the United States’ World Cup-closing 1-0 loss to Yugoslavia, Coach Steve Sampson said he planned to fine Tab Ramos, Alexi Lalas and Jeff Agoos for critical comments made of him, his coaching and his tactics.

Sampson also said Ramos, Lalas and Agoos would not play again for the U.S. team if he were retained as coach.

“I don’t think any level of unprofessionalism is acceptable,” Sampson told reporters Friday at the team’s beachfront hotel in Pornic.

Of Ramos, who described the Americans’ World Cup preparation as “a mess,” Sampson said, “It’s unfortunate he feels so free to voice his opinion about me when I have given him so much respect and credit.”

Of Lalas, who complained bitterly about not playing in any of the three U.S. games, Sampson said: “His professionalism was top class, but his mood once we lost to Germany changed dramatically. In my opinion, you earn the right to represent your country.”

Agoos, who like Lalas did not play a minute in France, also complained about his lack of playing time. Sampson said the three players would be fined “a significant” amount--possibly to be deducted from each player’s $35,000 World Cup stipend.

Sampson, whose contract expires after the World Cup, said he believes he should be retained as coach if U.S. Soccer Federation officials determine the poor World Cup showing is “a matter of poor execution by the players.” He added that “they have every reason to dismiss me if they think it’s a case of poor preparation or tactics.”

Then again, Sampson could beat the federation to any decision, acknowledging that the revolt by the team’s veteran players has caused him to consider resigning his position.

“I’ve worked too hard,” Sampson said. “I’m not going to let one or two individuals dictate my career.”