Bleacher Report - Articles by Travis Clark

Is Arsenal's Emmanuel Adebayor on His Way Out to Manchester City?

Travis Clark — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 09:58:38 -0400

Manchester City has spent the bulk of the "silly season" linked to any and every footballer imaginable. With the signing of Carlos Tevez in the bag, their next move may be for Arsenal's Emmanuel Adebayor.

With a price tag of £25 million reportedly agreed upon, it would be a healthy profit for the North London club that acquired the Togolese striker for a sum just south of £6 million in 2006.

Surely that is good business, but what will it mean on the pitch?

Adebayor, for all his migraine-inducing antics, has provided a healthy sum of 46 goals in the past two seasons. His departure would certainly be a concern to some Arsenal fans as much as it would be for a joy for others to see him walk away.

Any moves Arsene Wenger made after this hypothetical sale would dictate the success of Adebayor's move.

To simply pocket the cash and not bring in any other players would certainly be a grave error.

To bring in a striker on the cheap, such as Marouane Chamakh from Bordeaux, would be a start.

To acquire that same cheap striker and also add a holding midfielder with bite, would tip the scales of this move in Arsenal's favor

Replacing Adebayor's goals won't be a problem. With the re-signing of Robin Van Persie, a full season of Andrey Arshavin, not to mention Eduardo and Nicklas Bendtner, there is no doubt that Wenger can coax goals out of that group.

Throwing in a unknown quantity like Chamakh could be a bit questionable, but who in their right mind can challenge Arsene Wenger and his knowledge of the French league?

A simple glance at his track record indicates he knows what he is doing when it comes to French footballers.

The bigger question would be who Arsenal would get with that money to play alongside Cesc Fabregas.

With Alex Song and Denilson not looking up to snuff quite yet, a talented and proven midfielder is a necessity in order for this team to challenge for the title this season.

They've been linked with Felipe Melo already, but he found his way to Juventus, opting to remain in Serie A.

Other names include obscure Frenchman Blaise Matuidi of AS Saint-Etienne. If he remains the only name linked for a move to North London, Arsenal fans might be up in arms.

Depending on how the Adebayor saga plays out, it's clear that the giant Togo striker no longer wants to call Arsenal his home club—whether it's for the lure of Milan or the millions of Manchester City.

U.S. National Team Overcomes Inconsistent Play to Defeat Honduras 2-0

Travis Clark — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 01:03:14 -0400

The previous time the U.S. men’s soccer team faced Honduras at RFK Stadium, it marked the last defeat suffered on home soil to a CONCACAF competitor.

To ensure a repeat performance wasn’t in store on Wednesday night, it was important for the United States' midfield, comprised mostly of MLS players, to play strongly. Bob Bradley knew it would be a difficult task.

“We knew that this would be a good challenge tonight…games like this, there’s got to be a good collective effort from start to finish.”

Honduran flags dominated the partisan crowd of 26,079, and the starting central midfield duo of Logan Pause and Kyle Beckerman struggled to get an early hold on the game.

Of the two, Beckerman looked more comfortable at the game’s onset, unlocking the Honduran defense with a brilliant through ball, but the opportunity was missed.

As the first half progressed, both sides had their share of struggles. A Beckerman turnover led to a breakaway for Honduran attacker Walter Martinez, but fortunately, his shot beat goalkeeper Troy Perkins and hit the side netting.

Play on the flanks was a different story. Robbie Rogers and Santino Quaranta both brought much-needed speed to the attack. Rogers, who was named the man of the match in the opening game of the Gold Cup, seemed to pick up where he left off.

Then there was Quaranta, earning his first national-team start since his well-documented comeback, performed well at his home stadium, RFK.

Honduran midfielders Melvin Valladares and Carlos Palacios gave the U.S. midfield fits, as they started to struggle to hold possession.

Rogers, who was looking dangerous going down the left flank, helped maintain pressure on the Honduran side. That being said, it was not a pretty game for either side, as neither side could convert on the few chances carved out.

The stretches of the game that the U.S. dominated were keyed by solid midfield play. They knocked around the ball with confidence and looked much more dangerous when in control.

It was no surprise when Bob Bradley elected to yank Pause out of the game in the second half. Taking his place was Benny Feilhaber, fresh off a solid performance at the Confederations Cup in South Africa.

The insertion of Feilhaber brought a calming effect to the match. His vision and touch in the center of the pitch were a welcome addition. With the ball at his feet, he helped spring the United States' first goal.

A nifty give-and-go between Feilhaber and Ching helped open the U.S. account. Navigating space through the tight Honduran defense, Feilhaber found an open Charlie Davies, who deflected the ball towards an onrushing Quaranta, who obliged by slamming home the game’s first goal.

With the goal, the U.S. found new legs and began to clamp down in the midfield. They managed to keep both the opposition and crowd at bay, and it was another goal from Brian Ching that sealed the 2-0 victory.

With newly found confidence thanks to their successive strikes, the U.S. midfield controlled the game’s final 10 minutes, ensuring their undefeated record in 2009 Gold Cup play. Bradley, while pleased with result, knows there still is work to be done.

"We still, as a group, have to put more into it. We still have to raise the level a little bit more."

Oguchi Onyewu's Transfer to A.C. Milan and What It Means

Travis Clark — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 12:01:26 -0400

For the American soccer fan, seeing a U.S. Men's National team regular get snatched up by one of Europe's big clubs always instigates feelings of euphoria.

Brighter visions of success always accompany a move such as that, as yet another player will get a chance to stand toe-to-toe with some of the game's best and brightest talents.

The latest in the transfer merry-go-round is hulking defender Oguchi Onyewu, fresh off a solid performance in the Confederations Cup, getting snatched up by Italian club A.C. Milan Tuesday morning.

Onyewu, originally from Olney, Md., formerly played with Standard Liege of the Jupiler League, Belgium's first division. The 27-year-old has emerged as America's first-choice central defender. His move to Milan is a cause for fans across the states to rejoice.

This transfer can mean big things for U.S. Soccer in 2010.

It is now a possibility that a starting Serie A defender will also be marshaling the U.S. central defense when they kick off their World Cup campaign next year.

The trip to South Africa is going to be a great challenge, but having a player like Onyewu gaining experience in a high profile league will have the U.S. in better position to succeed.

Going up against world-class opposition within Serie A along with the UEFA Champions League will hopefully leave Onyewu poised for a spectacular performance in next year's World Cup.

However, as with everything in life, there's a potential downside to the move.

If Onyewu struggles for playing time, like many other Americans have in Europe, Bob Bradley could be left in a precarious position. Without regular play, Onyewu's fitness could come into question and leave the U.S. with a tough decision.

Recent performances from players like DeMarcus Beasley and Freddy Adu, both of whom struggled for playing time, indicate that it would be tough for Onyewu to perform up to a high level if he is froze out at Milan.

And not to say that is going to happen. For all the glitz and glamor of the club, they have questions at the back. Surely Onyewu is not being added to ride the bench.

That being said, he has arrived on a free transfer, and will certainly have to prove himself in order to gain a spot in the starting lineup. Hopefully, if he pulls that off, he'll help set up for what many hope will be a memorable run for the United States in the 2010 World Cup.

Eight MLS Players Deserving of a Spot In The 2009 U.S. Gold Cup Squad

Travis Clark — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 14:01:46 -0400

With the Confederations Cup just a week away, there's a lot of chatter going around about the U.S. Men's National Team.

A 23-man squad is already in South Africa, preparing for that tournament few consider worthwhile. And while there will be talking points to glean from going up against the likes of Italy, Brazil, and Egypt, another tournament awaits in July.

The Gold Cup, CONCACAF's regional championship, kicks off on July 4 in the U.S. Because of the Confederations Cup, it is thought that a side heavy on the MLS side will be selected.

While there will be an assortment of foreign based players in the Gold Cup squad, as in years past, a number of in form MLS players will also get the call. Here's a look at eight MLS players who are worthy of a look from Bob Bradley and his coaching staff.

Stuart Holden, Midfield, Houston Dynamo

Of the players here, Holden is perhaps the most deserving to get into the squad. The midfielder/forward has been a revelation in the past few weeks, helping alleviate the absence of Brian Ching.

Just look at the goal he scored against Chicago on June 5. A dangerous run into the box to lose his defender and calmly finish past Jon Busch.

Despite his strong start to 2009, Holden has yet to receive a full cap on the international level. An injury in January prevent him from taking place in the U.S. friendly against Sweden. He does bring some international experience to the fold, having played in the 2008 Olympics for the U-23 side.

Even if he's over looked this time around, it probably won't be too long before he gets that first cap.

Kenny Cooper, Forward, FC Dallas

Always a fan favorite of players they'd like to see in a US MNT jersey, Cooper should be a shoo-in to make the team. After all, if he can't get a call up for the Gold Cup, he surely must be pondering what is keeping him out of the U.S. getup.

While Cooper has been capped four times, scoring twice in those appearances, he's yet to gain a meaningful call up. In 2008 many fans were clamoring for the hulking forward to get a chance to prove that he has what it takes as the U.S. offense floundered.

A Gold Cup audition could be just what he needs to prove that he can succeed on the international level.

Geoff Cameron, Defender, Houston Dynamo

Another key member of the Dynamo, Cameron is only in his second year in MLS. However, he's already proved versatility, helping to stabilized a Dynamo defense that looked out to sea at the beginning of the season.

Originally coming into the league as a midfielder, an early season injury to Eddie Robinson forced Cameron to switch to central defense. After a slow start, he is now flourishing, keying a defensive corps that has allowed an MLS-best seven goals all season.

While inexperience might hold him back, if Cameron continues to play at a high level he surely won't go unnoticed for long.

Santino Quaranta, Midfielder/Forward, D.C. United

American sports fans love the underdog stories -- a player overcoming the odds to make it to the big time.

Santino Quaranta fits this bill. Though he had already "made it" as a professional by the early age of 16, struggles with addiction nearly put an early end to his career. In 2008, he made a comeback with D.C. United, and 2009 the dynamic attacker has flourished in the nation's capital.

With 11 caps to his name already, the Gold Cup would be the perfect stage to bring Quaranta back into the national team fold. It's a competition he's already played in once, featuring in the tournament's 2005 edition.

At just 24, he has many years left in the top levels of MLS. If things go his way, he might even get a chance to add to that cap total.

Colin Clark, Midfield, Colorado Rapids

An uncapped winger, Clark has provided steady play for the Rapids all season in 2009. While the U.S. has recently struggled to field a consistent player on the left side of the midfield, Clark has remained a dangerous threat for Colorado.

Though he has not been tested in an atmosphere like the Gold Cup, now would be the perfect time to put his skills on display in front of the US MNT coaching staff.

And if Clark puts in a strong performance he is capable of, he could see himself with a consistent chance for a call up in the future.

Robbie Findley, Forward, Real Salt Lake

A forward with blinding pace, Findley would be the ideal compliment to a strong, powerful attacker like Cooper. While his play for Real Salt Lake has been a touch this season, he would provide much needed pace to the U.S. side.

The only downside to a player like Findley would be his lack of ability playing up top alone. Because of his size, he would have to be deployed alongside another striker in a 4-4-2.

Jimmy Conrad, Defender, Kansas City Wizards

Looking for an experienced, smart defender to lead a backline through an international tournament? Look no further than Captain KC, generally regarded as a fringe player on the international level.

Conrad brings a well-rounded international resume to the fold. Having previously appeared in the Gold Cup in 2005, his 24 caps make him one of the more accomplished U.S. Internationals in MLS.

That seems a bit paltry, perhaps, but having someone like Conrad in the side would do wonders for the defense.

Chris Pontius, Midfielder/Forward, D.C. United

The runaway rookie of the year thus far in MLS, Chris Pontius has enjoyed a tremendous first season playing in Washington, D.C. His versatility alone brings him into the discussion -- he's lined up as a forward, attacking midfielder, holding midfielder, and winger in United's 3-5-2 formation.

Not only that, but he's also excelled in the Black-and-Red, tallying an impressive three goals to lead rookies.

Of the players on the list, Pontius is probably the least likely to make it. But if his career continues the upward trajectory it has started out on, there's no doubt his name will come back into this discussion in the future.

U.S. Men's National Team WCQ Preview: Costa Rica

Travis Clark — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 12:08:58 -0400

The two-month hiatus from World Cup Qualifying is almost behind us as the U.S. prepares to kickoff a busy summer starting tomorrow in San Juan, Costa Rica.

Recent fixtures in the Central American country have not favored the U.S. The most recent match up was a 3-0 drubbing at the hands of los Ticos.

Although qualification to the 2006 competition in Germany was already clinched, going back even further reveals the U.S. has never won a qualifier in Costa Rica. In fact, their away record is a less-than flattering mark of 0-6-1.

That brings us to tomorrow's game. With a 2-0-1 start in the hexagonal stage of qualifying, confidence should be high in the U.S. camp. They lead Costa Rica by just a point, however, and los Ticos will no doubt be their biggest test on the road.

A repeat performance of their 2-2 draw against El Salvador will do little to inspire confidence. For too long, the U.S. has been notorious for beating up on the CONCACAF minnows, then stumbling in front of a larger audience.

As in past encounters, Costa Rica will be no pushover, led by the likes of Melbourne Victory star Carlos Hernandez, who has punished the U.S. in the past.

A hostile crowd will likely be in attendance, hoping to see their beloved countrymen once again send the Americans packing after a defeat.

Not even halfway through the hexagonal, this is an important stretch for the U.S. A win here and in Chicago next week virtually punches their ticket to the 2010 World Cup. While a loss shouldn't trigger a massive panic, it would be encouraging to see a solid result on the road in a hostile environment.

The U.S. has broken camp and will be missing a couple of key players. Maurice Edu, in fine form with Glasgow Rangers, picked up a niggling ankle injury in his last game of the season and won't play.

Ricardo Clark of the Houston Dynamo has been called up in his place.

Frankie Hejduk, a solid choice at right back is also on the trainer's table, working hard to pass a fitness test to feature against Honduras.

I have little doubt that Bob Bradley will go with a more conservative approach to this one.

Brian Ching, everyone's least favorite striker, will most likely spearhead a 4-5-1 attack, with Donovan playing right behind him.

On the wings, DaMarcus Beasley and Clint Dempsey will be manning both flanks, despite the fact Beasley has featured rather infrequently for Rangers.

Colorado Rapids midfielder Pablo Mastroeni should get the nod next to Michael Bradley in the holding midfielder spot.

As far as a backline goes, Oguchi Onyewu and Carlos Bocanegra will be the starting centerbacks—it's the other two members of the defense that are up for grabs.

With Hejduk out, Jonathan Spector of West Ham could be in the starting lineup. On the left side, Heath Pearce and Jonathan Bornstein are possible selections.

Here's my take on what we might see Wednesday night:

Projected lineup:

Ching

Donovan

Beasley Dempsey

Bradley Mastroeni

Bornstein Onyewu Bocanegra Spector

Howard

Subs: DeMerit, Guzan, Klejstan, Adu, Alditore, Torres, Bornstein

We'll see how adventurous Bradley gets. It would be nice to see perhaps more experimenting with either Adu or Altidore in the starting lineup, though given Bradley's track record, it's quite a long shot.

All that aside, it is a very important test for the U.S. Costa Rica will likely be one of the three to automatically qualify from CONCACAF, so a win on the road would be a step in the right direction for this squad.

Prediction: Costa Rica 2-2 U.S.

Fulham FC: A Tale of Two Seasons

Travis Clark — Mon, 25 May 2009 22:21:34 -0400

What a difference a year makes. This time last season, Fulham Football Club headed into the final fixture in dire straights. A loss would see them tumble into the Championship, perhaps never to rise again. They won that last game, thanks to a Danny Murphy header 14 minutes from the final whistle.

That win, and their superior goal difference, kept them afloat. They would live to fight again in the Premiership—and find themselves on the cusp of Europe this time around.

Manager Roy Hodgson, mastermind of the 2008 rescue act, was now entering his first full year at the helm. There was much to do at a maligned club like Fulham, but he seemed to have the right plan during the summer break.

Fulham lack the spending power of Chelsea or Manchester United. With money hardly at a premium, the signings in summer 2008 were few and far between. Hodgson had to make sure he brought in players who would make an impact.

Andy Johnson, the prolific goal scorer from Everton, and Bobby Zamora, from West Ham, were added in an attempt to give the Fulham attack more bite. Mark Schwarzer was brought over from Middlesbrough to solidify the goalkeeping.

The start of the 2008-2009 season brought a small glimmer of hope, as Fulham managed a 1-0 win against Arsenal at home. Results away from the Cottage were significantly improved—though no games on the road were won in the fall of 2008, seven of the nine games ended in draws.

The addition of Schwarzer turned out to be massive, as his presence in goal led to 11 clean sheets before the end of the year was up. By the end of the season, he would concede just 34 goals—down from 60 the previous season.

As a result of this defensive stability—also due to the Norweigan international Brede Hangeland—the Cottagers found themselves in a rather unusual position. Instead of being mired in the muck of relegation, they were in the top half of the table. All of a sudden, a position in the newly christened Europa League was a possibility.

With a steady string of results in 2009, Fulham kept par for the course. A 1-0 win against Newcastle United in the second-to-last game of the year ensured the Europa League was in sight. A win against Everton, and seventh place was clinched.

That last game didn't go as planned. It became forgettable as Everton stifled Fulham at home, winning 2-0. Fortune was on their side that day, as neighboring club Tottenham, just two points off the pace for seventh place, couldn't muster a win at Anfield.

Spurs' 3-1 loss to Liverpool rendered the Everton game meaningless. Their final haul of 53 points stood up for Fulham's best finish in nine seasons of top flight football.

What Roy Hodgson has done in one season is nothing short of remarkable. To go from a floundering club, rescued last season by goal difference, to qualify for a European spot is sensational. There's no doubt that Hodgson should run away with the Manager of the Year award. It would be heinous to allow another manager near it.

It will be even more interesting to see what happens next year. Can a club like Fulham make a significant run in Europe? Or will Hodgson be conservative and simply trot out a reserve side?

There's nothing wrong with trying to maintain a top 10 finish in the Premier League. After all, with the startling lack of parity in the English top flight, finishing where they have this year is almost the best Fulham fans can ever hope for. With that said, it shouldn't take anything away from their incredible achievement.

How Much Pressure Is Bob Bradley Under This Summer?

Travis Clark — Thu, 21 May 2009 14:51:41 -0400

With the start of June close at hand, U.S. Men's National Team (USMNT) Head Coach Bob Bradley has one of the biggest tests of his tenure at the helm of the USMNT looming. But how much does it matter?

June 3 and 6 are two vital World Cup qualifiers against Costa Rica and Honduras respectively. Following that is a stretch from June 15-21 in South Africa, where the U.S. will take on Brazil, Italy, and Egypt. Throw the Gold Cup into the mix in July, and of course the remainder of World Cup qualifying, and it seems like a daunting task.

The full slate of games on hand no doubt creates a pressure for the team perform. And that starts and stops with the head coach, to begin by bringing in the right players in. U.S. fans are clamoring for a full strength squad to head to South Africa and truly test the national team as the take on some of the best team's in the world.

Fast forward to this fall. Let's say, from a hypothetical stand point, neither the Confederations Cup nor the Gold Cup go well. People would roll their eyes and groan about a lack of results. Many would see it as a step backwards for the team. Failure against the likes of Brazil and Italy, while not surprising, would be a bit of a disappointment.

But that's not how it should be. The Confederations Cup is just a friendly tournament, a dry run for a World Cup. Why should it matter what the U.S. achieves there?

I would much rather see Bradley experiment with different lineups, tweak things around as to prepare for the actual World Cup, then take a tired or typical approach to a glorified exhibition. The status quo probably won't be good enough to beat a top tier team.

When it boils down to it, the World Cup should remain the pressure cooker for a head coach. That being said, Bradley should be under pressure to use both the Confederations Cup and Gold Cup wisely this summer.

Players in MLS and obscure players from abroad can be brought in to get some international experience, learn what it's like to be a part of the fold. The more experienced players Bradley has at his disposal, the better it is both for the present and future of the program.

Bradley shouldn't get a free pass if the team struggles monumentally. But if he loses while experimenting with new players and formations, he should receive some credit for being creative. Too often coaches play it safe to protect themselves. Bradley can stick his neck out a little bit this summer and see what happens.

People are always claiming the U.S. never plays any high-profile opponents—but who really cares if they do well in the Confederations Cup? I'd rather see a team playing with their eyes on the prize for 2010, not 2009.

Who Will Coach The Philadelphia Union?

Travis Clark — Mon, 18 May 2009 11:58:17 -0400

It's been a relatively calm week for the newest franchise in Major League Soccer. Think of it as the calm before the storm, as the team continues to build its front office.

The big question facing CEO Nick Sakiewicz and team President Tom Veit is who to hire as the team's first head coach. Sakiewicz spoke with Glenn Davis on The Soccer Hour radio show last week and gave some insight on how they plan on setting up the organization:

"We're going to set up a little bit differently than the other MLS clubs. We're going to take a page out of a team like Manchester United or Arsenal," Sakiewicz told Davis. "We're hiring a team manager slash head coach. This is a very experienced, very high profile individual which I cannot talk about. We're going to make that hire because that model is the best model in the world."

Sakiewicz also indicated on Fox Soccer Channel the night before this interview that the process is just one or two weeks away from being completed. That means they have spoken to this individual, and perhaps the decision is a lot closer to being made. When pressed if their candidate had MLS experience, Sakiewicz wouldn't reveal much:

"I really can't say, because I'm under a confidentiality and if I started talking about if he was in Major League Soccer, I don't believe there's a lot of people like this, so you wise public relations guys and media guys would figure it out," Sakiewicz said.

The insight that Sakiewicz brings implies that whomever they are considering, this person is an obvious choice. That leads me to believe that this person has not spent time within MLS—something made even more obvious because the regular season is in full swing.

Might that someone be Sven-Govan Eriksson? It's pure speculation on my part, but worth considering. It's no secret that the Swede is looking for work, and claims to have a number of offers on the table. But would he consider coming to work in MLS? That's a big question that may be answered over the next week or two. It's all based off pure speculation, but Eriksson is a high-profile coach with the European experience that the Union is hoping to model.

There are a number of other well-qualified coaching candidates that the Union are surely considering. One of those is Piotr Nowak, assistant to Bob Bradley with the U.S. Men's National Team. Nowak's biggest project, coaching the U-23's in the 2008 Olympics, is long in the past, and he could be in position to step into a role with the Union. Nowak has the kind of championship experience that Philadelphia would be hoping to bring to the area.

Top tier collegiate coaches, such as the University of Maryland's Sacho Cirovski or Wake Forest's Vidovich might be considered. Both have built a solid University program, with Cirovski's Terrapins winning the College Cup in 2008. However, because they've both recently brought in new recruits, and I don't think either would take the new position.

Other names that are out there include ESPN broadcaster John Harkes, who has experience as an assistant coach with the New York Red Bull a couple years ago. Another overseas coach with MLS experience is Octavio Zambrano, who spent time as an assistant and head coach with the L.A. Galaxy and the New York Metrostars. He's been at the helm of FC Tatabanya, a club in Hungary.

Whoever becomes the head of the Union, he'll have his work cut out for him. While a number of the pieces in place, building a team is no easy task.

UPDATE: Ives is reporting that the coach has been hired. We'll see who it is shortly.

MLS Philadelphia Liberty: A New Wait Begins

Travis Clark — Mon, 11 May 2009 19:29:41 -0400

After two years of waiting, the Sons of Ben have achieved what they set out to do.

Around noon today at Philadelphia's City Hall, the name and colors of Major League Soccer's 16th team became official. Aptly named the Philadelphia Union, the real work now begins for the league's newest addition. The new team has much to do between now and March 2010, when they begin league play, but the ingredients of success are beginning to fall in place.

Expansion teams, no matter what league you are in, have a tall task before the first whistle. Things like getting to know coaches, teammates, and even the league itself make success elusive for most teams in their freshman season. T

here is still a long check list to sort through before worrying about success on the pitch.

The first step to that is well underway, as a brand new soccer specific stadium is under construction in Chester, Pennsylvania; a short drive outside the Philadelphia city limits.

The team hopes to sell out the 18,500 capacity stadium before play begins, and if today's support is any indication of things to come, then that shouldn't be a glaring concern.

Pieces of the front office have been slowly but surely coming together, as recently named President Tom Veit took the podium today. Last week he was joined by Carl Cherkin, Vice President of Communications. Both are now part of the team, charged with the task of building a new team in a new place.

Competition for attention will be tough, as the Union will try and attract new followers in an over saturated sports market. The Flyers, Phillies, Eagles, and 76ers all commandeer a large fan base and while the new Union won't be trying to steal fans from their ranks, press and media attention could be hard to come by.

Philadelphia can learn a lot from a place like Seattle, the 2009 newcomers who have taken the league by storm. The new team has averaged more than 29,000 fans in their first MLS season and have taken their city by storm. Tickets to Sounders' games are sold out through the end of June.

Success like that would no doubt please the Union's front office.

For the Sons of Ben, the supporters group who can take credit for bringing MLS to Philadelphia, the two year wait has now become just ten months until the first kick. The anticipation and fervor will reach new heights. A team will be built, and the fans will eagerly await the debut of their newly established Union.

Contender or Pretender: Chivas USA

Travis Clark — Thu, 07 May 2009 14:26:59 -0400

The strong start of Chivas USA is not a uncommon theme. Since the club's inception in 2004, they've qualified for the playoffs three out of four seasons. Early in 2009, head coach Predrag Radosavljević (known as Preki) has his team off the best start in Major League Soccer. But can the Goats keep it up?

The early recipe for success has been simple: a dash of timely scoring, mixed in with solid and consistent defense, all topped off with a slimmer and rejuvenated Zach Thornton. Those three elements have been crucial in picking up 19 of a possible 24 points this season.

As with 2008, Preki has chosen not to rely on one or two proven goal scorers. A lot of that is due to injuries—but credit Preki's ability to get goals out of the likes of Mexican journeyman Eduardo Lillington and Chukwudi Chijindu.

Two surprises have marked their early run—the sensational play of Zach Thornton, and the struggles of Sacha Kljestan. The former came into the season having dropped a significant amount of weight, and the results have shown already.

The defense in front of him is always well organized as well; but I was among those surprised that Chivas didn't pick Stefan Frei. The play of Thornton, who has five shutouts in eight games has made people quickly forget about Frei.

Kljestan's play is more of an enigma. Coming off a solid 2008, in which he played in the Beijing Olympics, and was named the U.S. Soccer 2008 Young Player of the Year, Kljestan seemed destined to head to Europe. There was an air of inevitability around a switch to Scottish power Celtic after his hat trick in a friendly against Sweden.

However, it never materialized and Kljestan has been off to a slow start this season. He has yet to score or notch an assist and has not looked his usual self. If he finds his groove as the season progresses, this team becomes even more dangerous

Success has been no stranger to Chivas—t's the postseason success that has continued to elude their grasp. Three consecutive losses in the Western Quarterfinals has equated to no trophies out West.

This season could be the difference. With Thornton at the peak of his game, and the usual injuries continuing to be a non-factor, look for the Goats to actually contend this season.

Verdict: Contender

Don't Count Columbus Out

Travis Clark — Mon, 04 May 2009 14:03:38 -0400

Coming off a dream 2008 season, it was fair to expect another fast start for the Columbus Crew prior to 2009. With all but one starter returning from last year, the defending champions were expected to pick up from where they left off.

Their only notable losses were head coach Sigi Schmid and Midfielder Brad Evans, both heading West to ply their trade with Seattle Sounders FC, the newest MLS team.

Fast forward to the present. Seven games in, and the Crew's struggles are one of the major story lines of Major League Soccer in 2009. Through seven matches, they've managed five ties and two losses, good for second to last in the Eastern Conference, equal on points with their 2008 MLS cup foes, the New York Red Bulls.

With nagging injuries affecting regulars like Pat Noonan, Frankie Hejduk and Will Hesmer, the excuses are there. Guillermo Barros Schelotto hasn't been able to recapture his MVP form of last year, and with that the offense has struggled.

Despite the lackluster start, panic has not been prevalent in Ohio. New head coach Robert Warzycha looks to be patient, and the results are slowly tipping in their favor.

They played perhaps their best game of the season in a 2-2 draw against Chicago Fire, and despite blowing a 2-0 lead, should be happy with everything except the result. Coming away from feisty BMO Field with a point is something to be proud of, even though they blew a 1-0 lead and wasted a number of opportunities.

Confidence could be low as the only winless team in MLS, but the signs are there for the Crew. The championship swagger of last season may be gone, but the players are already in place to right the ship. As soon as they pick up that elusive first win, look for the Crew to go on a run to vault themselves back into the upper echelons of the league.

The bounce of the ball has started to go their way, and in a long MLS season there is plenty of time to recover and make the playoffs.

Top Five MLS Rookie Performers

Travis Clark — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 10:35:14 -0400

There were many pundits touting the 2009 draft class as perhaps the greatest that MLS has ever seen. Even though it's only seven weeks into the regular season, it's clear that this is a draft for the ages, with several rookies already logging serious minutes for their respective clubs. And while it's early, here's my pick for the top five MLS rookie performers up to this point:

1. Stefan Frei—Goalkeeper, Toronto FC

One of the great shocks on draft day was Frei dropping down to Toronto's third pick (thirteenth overall) of the first round. Many scouts listed Frei as the draft's top shot-stopper and had him going to D.C. or Chivas. He's proved his mettle in the past few weeks and seems to have a firm grip on the number one jersey in Toronto. Any rookie that beats out an established veteran like Frei has deserves his plaudits, and two shutouts in his past two games helps his cause tremendously.

2. Chris Pontius—Forward/Midfielder, D.C. United

To be honest, Pontius is almost neck-and-neck with Frei. The versatile forward/midfielder out of the University of California (Santa Barbara) has been a revelation for United. He has started and played every minute of the season so far in the Black-and-Red, one of just two players to do that. He's even contributed two goals and two assists, including a game winner against New York last Sunday. His versatility gives Tom Soehn a forward and wide player who works his tail off, announcing himself as an early candidate for Rookie of the Year.

3. Steve Zakuani—Midfielder, Seattle Sounders FC

The No. 1 overall draft pick always has pressure on him—whether it's the NBA, NHL or MLS. While Zakuani hasn't played as much as other rookies, his contribution of two goals and two assists in six appearances speak well for themselves. The flair and speed of the midfielder adds an element to the Sounders' attack that needs to be on display each game.

4. Matt Besler—Defender, Kansas City Wizards

Who is Matt Besler? He's a local product of Kansas City, from nearby Overland Park, and since jumping into the Wizards' starting lineup the team has an impressive record of 3-1-1. He's presence has helped to settle a backline that leaked five goals in its first two games. Three shutouts in the next five games, Besler will be need to help solidify a young defense aside from veteran Jimmy Conrad.

5. Rodney Wallace—Midfielder, D.C. United

This is no D.C. United love-in, but Wallace's resume thus far is similar to Pontius—jumping in to the starting lineup from day one, and refusing to relinquish it to veterans behind him. A wing player out of the University of Maryland, Wallace brings pace on the wing that United has lacked in the past. He scored his first goal against New York last weekend and has started and played in all but 17 minutes of league matches.

Just missing the cut: Sam Cronin, Midfielder, Toronto FC; Omar Gonzalez, Defender, Los Angeles Galaxy; Quincy Amerikwa, Forward, San Jose Earthquakes.