After This Weekends' Matches, It Is Time To Pick a Team

Alright Bleacher Creatures, I need your help. I have decided that after all the amazing action of this past weekend's matches, it is time for me to start rooting for a single team.

I have never had any allegiance one single soccer team. This is where I need help. I haven't made a decision yet, because I am not a fair-weather fan and I will root for this team for life. I feel like I need some help in deciding which team will be a good fit for me.

As I am sure you can tell from the first paragraph, I am an American, and have not been a life-long fans. I have never been to Europe, though I hope to go soon and check out a few matches while I am there.

Here is a little bit of my history with the beautiful game.

I played soccer when I was young, but once I was old enough to play American football, I switched and never looked back. I started really enjoying watching soccer starting with the 2006 World Cup. I have learned a ton since then and watched every single EURO 2008 match. I am in no way an expert, but I hope to learn even more over the rest of the season.

Let me list a few things I feel are important to have for any team I root for.

The game day atmosphere has to be top notch.

A loud, knowledgeable fan base who helps the team to victories at home and on the road is the most important factor. The play of the team is also an important factor.

I feel like I am a rational fan, and I can accept a few down seasons, as long as the team has a plan to be competitive again. I also like fast, upbeat teams—think the Oregon Ducks spread offense in College Football and the Golden State Warriors fast break offense in the NBA.

Here is a list of a couple of players and why I enjoy watching them.

Cristiano Ronaldo—I love his versatility and his speed. It seems as Rondaldo can score at any time ,and is fearless attacking defenders. I also enjoy watching his tricks. I do not like his complaining to the referees or his diving, or he would probably be my favorite player.

Fernando Torres—He is quickly becoming one of my favorite players. He is powerful, hard working and very skilled.

Lionel Messi—I am not even sure what characteristics to list here, as he seems to have them all. He is well liked, hard working, determined, and has all the skills. His goal this weekend left Osasuna players shrugging their shoulders in disbelief of how amazing it really was.

Michael Essien—I became his fan during the World Cup in 2006. His speed, versatility, and power have caught my eye ever since them. I actually rooted for Ghana to win against the United States because of his excellent play. The speed of this game makes the U.S. squad look like they're going at a snail's pace. I look forward to his return for Chelsea.

Let me know in the comments section which team you think would be a good fit for me. Please be nice if I incorrectly analyzed any players, or forgot any other great ones.

Thanks for everyone's advice.