Ah, the brashness of youth. Yesterday 16-year-old Freddy Adu went on a tirade of sorts, complaining about the amount of playing time he’s recieved this year and even (gasp) contemplating playing elsewhere next year. “I got [MLS] player of the week, and the next week I’m sitting on the bench,” Adu told the Post. “I’m like, ‘What is going on here?’ It’s frustrating at times when you think you’ve earned a chance to play on the field and you’re over there sitting on the bench.” Keep in mind DC United open their playoff schedule on Friday in Chicago against the Fire.

Head coach Peter Nowak was his usual stoic self about the whole situation. “He is not playing for me. He is playing for the team and this organization. We’re not going to put anyone above the team,” Nowak said.

So who is right? As of 2 p.m., the online poll from the Post (seen at right) would vindicate Adu. For the record, Adu has played in each of the 25 games he was available to play in this year, starting 16 of them. He ranks ninth in minutes played for DC United.

It seems to us that Nowak comes off as a no nonsense type of coach, one that certainly wouldn’t cave in to a “star” player, especially one that is all of 16 years old. But what becomes of DC United if Freddy leaves for greener pitches? Adu hinted at doing that very thing. “I always have to make the best decision for myself first, and I’m just looking into things right now. . . . I’ve been in this league for two years and it’s just been the same. I love the guys on this team. I don’t want to leave. I’m not saying I am going to leave — I’m not — but you always have to look ahead and see what the best situation is for yourself first.” Regular followers of MLS will remember NY/NJ Metrostars GM Alexi Lalas comments from earlier this year saying that he’d love to have Adu on his team and that Adu would recieve ample playing time.

Maybe Freddy just needs to blow off some steam. In any case, let the conspiracy theories begin.