vader you grinch, wish the lad well instead of predicting his demise
Exactly.
Actually have a hunch that Brotherton will forge a successful career. Maybe not at Sunderland or ever in the EPL/Championship, but somewhere. Rated on the US College scene, and by the NZF coaching staff - who despite criticism of (sometimes justified) - will know more about spotting/nuturing long term football talent than any of us. You can't write a 20 yr kid off after a couple of patchy games for the national team.
Definitely athletic, and again a hunch that he has a bit of that mental toughness that he'll need to succeed. Good luck to him.