2010 World Cup hopeful Thomas Hitzlsperger joins Lazio

A solid day for the Roman side as Lazio draw with Juventus (1-1) to help with the club's current relegation dogfight in Serie A plus signal the addion of Thomas Hitzlsperger via Stuttgart.

The 27-year-old German international midfielder was desperate for first-team action as he attempts to boost his chances of making Germany's 2010 World Cup roster.

World Football Wrap Up - 29/1/10: Wellington Phoenix, Al Ain, and CS Sedan

Wellington Phoenix return to winning ways with a 1-0 over Adelaide United. The New Zealand based club now has 34 points from 25 A-League matches. Jon McKain with the first-half match winner.

In United Arab Emirates Premier League action, Al Ain, third in the table, dispatched Al Nasr by two goals. One of those goals came via Samba striker Emerson. The Brazilian is a fresh off a successful stint in his homeland with Flamengo. The 31-year-old has impressed thus far in the UAE.

France's Ligue 2 relegation battlers Sedan moved higher up the table with 3-0 victory. Cameroonian Marcus Mokake notched a brace over loser Clermont.

Three-Way Transfer with Atalanta, Genoa, and Parma completed in second half of 2009-10 Serie A season; Hernan Crespo central to moves

As the 2009-10 Serie A campaign moves toward yet another Inter Milan title, teams have already begun to bolster squads for next year, including this three-way move between Parma, Genoa, and Atalanta.

+ Ten years later, Argentine Hernan Crespo has rejoined Parma. The striker joined the Italian side in 1996 after successful campaigns with River Plate. Stints throughout Italy with Lazio, Inter, Milan, and Genoa round out much of his club career.

+ 22-year-old Italian striker Robert Acquafresca ended his loan spell at Atalanta and has returned to Genoa.

+ Atalanta adds 34-year-old striker Nicola Amoruso from Parma until June 2011.

Current MLS Allocation Order - January 30th 2010

1. San Jose Earthquakes
2. Kansas City Wizards
3. Toronto FC
4. FC Dallas
5. New York Red Bulls
6. Colorado Rapids
7. New England Revolution
8. Chivas USA
9. Seattle Sounders
10. Columbus Crew
11. Chicago Fire
12. Houston Dynamo
13. Los Angeles Galaxy
14. Real Salt Lake
15. D.C. United
16. Philadelphia Union

Sunderland continue slip down the table

All the football headlines earlier this week may well have been about the Manchester derby, which was lit up by brilliant pieces of skill from the likes of Carlos Tevez and Wayne Rooney, but Wednesday night also brought some important results in the Premier League. The league action was dominated by a comfortable Chelsea victory, which brought an end to Birmingham's unbeaten run in all competitions, to such an extent that the action at Goodison Park went largely unnoticed by neutrals.

Sunderland fans, though, will have noticed the result, with the game ending 2-0 to the home team thanks to goals from the majestic Tim Cahill and new boy Landon Donovan. The match was further evidence of Sunderland's recent poor form which is resulting in a dramatic slide down the Premier League table. Victories earlier in the season against teams including Liverpool and Arsenal seem like distant memories now for Steve Bruce and his team, who are finding confidence hard to come by.

This lack of belief has seen them slip down to a precarious position just three points away from the dreaded relegation zone, which looked like the last place Sunderland would be heading just a couple of months ago. Indeed, Sunderland's win over title-chasing Arsenal seems to have been just another false dawn for the Black Cats, as they haven't won in the league since.

Although the football betting suggests Sunderland should stay up, their fans will still be looking at the league table with a sense of dread.

Meanwhile, Everton are in the opposite position to their opponents earlier in the week, with a good streak sending them in the right direction in the league. David Moyes' men seem to have picked up some kind of momentum, although their cause was helped by some dire Sunderland defending. Still, a UEFA Europa League place isn't out of Everton's reach this season.

With Stoke up next for Sunderland, and Wigan Everton's next opponents, it could be more of the same for these teams over the coming days.

New England Revolution's Taylor Twellman speaks to The American Soccer Show

MLS/USMNT/American Soccer podcast personalities Jason Davis and Zach Woosley secured an exclusive interview with New England Revulotion star Taylor Twellman at The American Soccer Show.

View the podcast at the site -- The American Soccer Show - Taylor Twellman

Is Real Sociedad returning to the Spanish La Liga for 2010-11?

Real Sociedad is poised to return to Spain’s La Liga next season with a comfortable 11-point promotion advantage.

Currently sitting in second place, the outfit slipped up at home recently against Elche. Are those dropped three points going to come back to haunt the club?

Manchester United's Gary Neville will descend into the Earth upon his retirement from the game

England wants all homes to be carbon neutral by 2012. United's Gary Neville really took this decree to heart as he has recently began construction on his 8,000 square foot home that will be....carbon neutral!

The building takes the shape of a flower – with a huge kitchen at the center of the structure. From the kitchen, six off-shoot like petals will house bedrooms, bathroom, a swimming pool, a gym, an office, dining rooms, and a garage.

Oh, did we mention, he is building this structure underground?

The building plans have been compared to a 'Teletubbies' house.

Via Manchester Evening News

Here is a link to the Teletubbies home -- Ben Lawson Flickr Account

Man City Transfer Rumours: Carlos Tevez could have Antonio Cassano as a teammate?

At The Carlos TevBlog -- Cassano coming to City?

Did you miss: The Carlos TevBlog, The Nordic Cross, and Leeds United doing what they do?

Just wanted to point out some news items you might have missed...

+ New blog joins Soccer City FC network -- The Carlos TevBlog ~ Manchester City FC news with a Tevez-centric focus.

+ And at Set Piece Analysts two new articles: Tottenham Hotspur 2-2 draw with Leeds United; Jermaine Beckford hero status grows and The Nordic Cross: Destination Denmark

FA Cup opens up with latest big four casualty

It was no secret that Stoke would seek to rough up Arsenal when they clashed in the FA Cup fourth round on Sunday.

So for Arsene Wenger to play the extremely talented, but physically brittle kids against the likes of Ryan Shawcross and Robert Huth, was asking for trouble.
And they got it.

Wenger can have no real complaints about the result, Stoke had the better of things throughout the match and as the young Gunners tired, the Potters finished strongly to seal a convincing 3-1 win.

The Arsenal boss will remain as stubborn as ever when to comes to putting faith in his young players. But with Manchester United and Liverpool already out, this was surely a great chance to end the Gunners well publicised five year trophy drought. They may well be performing well in the league and the Champions League, but those competitions are harder to win.

By treating the FA Cup like the Carling Cup the Gunners have put all their eggs in one Premier/Champions League basket. It remains to be seen whether that gamble will come off.

As it is, with three of the big four already out, the competition has really opened up to sides looking to emulate Portsmouth's win in 2008, when the top Premier League teams were humbled by the likes of Barnsley and Cardiff.

Chelsea will undoubtedly remain favourites in the FA Cup betting and they are looking to lift the trophy for the second time in a row and the sixth occasion in their history. But the likes of Birmingham, Aston Villa, Fulham and big spending Manchester City will all hope for a clear run into at least the semi-finals. Indeed those four clubs have been kept apart in the last 16 draw.

The Championship will definitely be represented in the last eight with Reading and West Brom facing off while League One could also have two participants if Southampton can beat South Coast rivals Portsmouth and Leeds overcome Spurs and then Bolton.

With three of the Premier League giants out critics may say the competition has lost its importance, while others would argue that the giant killing is a sign of its good health.

Either way for the clubs involved that road to Wembley has just become that little bit clearer.
Meanwhile, Arsenal's Premier League titles odds currently make them third favourites behind Chelsea and Manchester United.

Everton transfer rumours -- Steven Pienaar heading to Germany this summer?

27-year-old midfielder and South African international Steven Pienaar is rumoured to be off to Germany when his contract with Everton runs out this summer. Bayern Munich looks like the top destination.

Via Footballpress.net

Dempsey will play again this season

Clint Dempsey has been ruled out Fulham's tough Europa League last-32 tie against holders Shakhtar Donetsk, but he will feature again this term.

Dempsey suffered a knee injury in the 2-0 away defeat to Blackburn and was expected to be out for the rest of the season. It was originally thought he had torn his posterior cruciate ligament, meaning he would miss all of Fulham's remaining games as well as the World Cup.

However new scans have shown that the player only suffered minor damage and does not require surgery. This means the United States international should be back before the end of the season and could play a major part in Fulham's push to qualify for Europe for the second season in a row.

When he does return, he should give Fulham a boost on the pitch and this will no doubt be reflected in the side's football betting odds.

A club statement about the midfielder said: "Early indications are good in that no operation is required. At this stage it is thought that the injury will not prevent him playing prior to the end of the season."

The club's statement added: "While obviously disappointed, Clint is focused on his rehabilitation and will work hard, in line with medical advice, to return at the soonest opportunity."

Dempsey has been a key member of the Fulham squad this season, making 29 appearances and scoring seven goals. He has also been capped 44 times for the USA.

The USA will play England on June 12th in Rustenburg in the opening game of Group C at this summer's World Cup and American coach Bob Bradley was upbeat following the injury news.

He told the BBC: "The news about Clint's injury is positive, especially given the fact that he will not require surgery," said US coach Bob Bradley.

"We are confident that Clint will be ready to be an important part of our team during the World Cup."

Fulham are already without striker Bobby Zamora and defender John Pantsil for the Europa League tie meaning Roy Hodgson's options will be further limited for the clash against the four-time Ukrainian champions.

This is likely to have a negative impact on the side's Europa League betting odds.

Transfer Rumours: Van Nistelrooy now a target of West Ham United and Tottenham Hotspur?

Read on at Football in London: Van Nistelrooy a target?

Manchester City's Samba Jo heads to Galatasaray

Turkish side Galatasaray have added Brazilian Jo via Manchester City in a loan move through the end of the campaign. Via Soccerway News

Peter Utaka gives OB the edge in 2009-10 Danish Superliga

Now on break with 18 matches played, Odense Boldklub (OB) has a one-point edge over second place F.C. København in the Danish Superliga. OB is paced by Nigerian Peter Utaka.

Utaka, the younger brother of Portsmouth’s John, already netted double-digit goals.

Will he follow his brother to England if he keeps up the scoring pace?

The battle of Manchester begins

It was a special night. On a personal level, this first leg League Cup victory over the old enemy was one of the most memorable City matches I have witnessed.

Build up to a spectacle
The drama of last season’s UEFA Cup quarterfinal against Hamburg was a hard act to follow, but this match surpassed that in every way. In large part that was down to both the quality and, of course, the identity of our opponents. From the second the lights were dimmed, bathing the stadium in light blue, it became one of those nights. United fans played their part, upping the ante by setting off a couple of red fire crackers in retort. City fans responded by belting out a rapturous ‘Blue Moon’ Already electric, the atmosphere thickened as the pressure flowed from the stands onto the pitch.

After all the debate, Ferguson emerged from the bowels of Eastlands with a strong side, arguably his strongest available. No Wellbeck, no Macheda, no Gibson, no Obertan, no De Laet. Rafael Da Silva was the nearest United got to fielding inexperience, and that young full back is certainly no shrinking violet when it comes to Premier League football.

United’s team selection revealed much. Most tellingly it spoke of Ferguson’s true perception of the City threat and of his desire to defeat it. The fierce rivalry that has simmered and burned across Manchester for decades remains as bright as ever, indeed perhaps as close to boiling point now as it ever has been. Roberto Mancini deployed the best team available to him on the night. There were always going to be clear weaknesses throughout the team given the injury situation and international duties. No Bridge, no Lescott, no Toure, no Ireland, no Santa-Cruz, no Adebayor. Dedryck Boyata came into the defence to partner Kompany at centre back, Zabaleta moved to the left side of midfield whilst Bellamy was pushed up front with Tevez.

The battle is joined
For the first 30 minutes or so, we did not show up. It was no surprise when United opened the scoring on 16 minutes with a Giggs tap in. The bad start may have been partly down to Mancini getting the initial formation wrong. Bellamy is at his best when marauding down the left flank and Zabaleta was certainly no match for the tenacious Rafael. But it is more likely that we started the game in the wrong frame of mind. We seemed far too nervous and gave the United midfield far too much time on the ball when we should have been pressing.

We were generally wasteful in possession, with Kompany, Wright-Phillips and Boyata being particularly slack. The post match reaction of certain elements in the media seemed to heap praise on the young Belgian, but I felt he was a little out of his depth. He obviously has a future and will benefit greatly from this derby experience, but his selection represented a massive gamble on the part of Mancini. Perhaps a better option would’ve been to place Zabaleta at right back, move Richards across to partner Kompany with Bellamy replacing Zabaleta on the left flank.

Hindsight is always a wonderful thing. The main positive we can take from analysing the manager’s performance is that yet again he changed things quickly, moving Bellamy to the left wing, dropping Zabaleta back into a defensive midfield position which gave us a physically small but highly mobile three pronged attack of Bellamy, Tevez and Wright-Phillips. This allowed us to get at what continues to be United's weakspot - the central defensive partnering of Wes Brown and Jonny Evans, a weakness that is cleverly masked by the potency of United's forward play, which takes pressure off the backline.

At any rate, it was from Bellamy’s left side that we gained a penalty just before half time, justifying Mancini’s realignment. In some sense the successful penalty strike from Tevez represented a sucker punch for United, who up until this point had seemed relatively comfortable.

The second half was much better from City. Every time a Red shirt came into possession he was quickly pressed, none more so than by the magnificent Carlos Tevez. In the 65th minute, the Argentinean slightly rose to head Kompany’s hooked cross past Van Der Sar to give City a 2-1 lead. It was nothing more than the Blues leader striker deserved. His goals apart, Tevez’s contribution was that much more impossible to ignore because of his overall play. This above all remains the most important element of Tevez, not only because it helps the objectives of the team but because it sets the right message to the team that this is the level of work rate they should all be hitting. It is the kind of message that should be specifically getting through to the likes of Robinho. In congratulating Tevez on his December Barclays Player of the Month award, Mancini’s programme notes could easily be interpreted as containing a veiled warning for the Brazilian:

“He [Tevez] is a player I have admired from a distance for many years, and it is
a delight to work with him on a daily basis. His form speaks for itself, but his
success has come about through hard work on the training ground allied to his
outstanding talent. He gives everything he has for the team, and works just as
hard without the ball as when he has it. That is something that I always look
for in a player, but the bonus with Carlos is that he is such a threat in front
of goal.”

The final quarter of the match
This may be hard to stomach for some readers, but there is no doubt that United are a slick and potent attacking machine, the best I have seen at Eastlands all season. The quality of their offensive play reminds me of an animal that senses blood. This was evident as the final minutes closed in. We were under siege with very little outlet, in fact the pattern of the game was reminiscent of the dying minutes at Old Trafford earlier in the season, when our failure to clear our lines and retain possession ultimately resulted in our late, late demise.

Once again, I commend Mancini. Boyata was rightly substituted just before the 70 minute mark, replaced with the more experienced Nedum Onuoha. Then came another defensive substitution on 84 minutes, with Sylvinho replacing the tired Wright-Phillips. I’ve heard a lot of criticism about these moves but I back the manager 100%. The alternative would’ve been to bring on more attack minded players to relieve the pressure, but I believe the likes of Robinho and Petrov would’ve been muscled out in this environment. Mancini well may have invited more pressure by bringing on extra defensive capacity, but we were in a much better position defending to the hilt rather than thinning out our defence by going for another goal.

After all, we must remember that this tie was always going to be a tight affair. And whilst City are an excellent counter attacking side, we must also remember that at this point in time United are better. Their brand of quick, precise one-touch football is based entirely on the mutual understanding of their forward players. This should be no surprise because Ferguson has had a great deal of time to engrain this philosophy into the club. All the more reason why bringing on an attack minded player and thinning the defence was the wrong way to go.

Looking towards the next leg
Whilst we take a slender lead into the next leg, it is nevertheless a lead. It may seem like a strange comment, but I feel more comfortable with a one goal lead rather than to be up two or three. The latter scenarios just seem to invite defensive collapse. Perhaps that attitude is being far too ‘typical City’ for anyone’s liking.

But now, as we stand on the cusp of a League Cup Final, attitude is the vital word. We may well be able to field a stronger side at Old Trafford if the recoveries of Wright-Phillips and Ireland go according to plan, but we also know that United are strong, and that United will come knocking.

In these situations it is belief that matters. And ultimately, it will be belief that dictates whether this City side can deliver itself, and its fans, onto the hallowed turf of Wembley.

___________________________________________________

For more posts on Manchester City, go to my blog: Without a Dream in Our Hearts.

Kashima Antlers soon to begin quest for fourth straight J League title

The Kashima Antlers secured a third straight J.League title last season and soon will begin the quest for a fourth when they host the Urawa Reds on March 6th according to various Japanese media reports.

The other opening day match will pit Gamba Osaka versus Nagoya Grampus.

The full 34-match schedule will be finalized by Feb. 3rd.

Internazionale - Inter Milan sans midfielders for Derby

Only midfielders Javier Zanetti and Wesley Sneijder plus winger Ricardo Quaresma are healthy.

Via Goal.com

Carling Cup 2009-2010: City 2 United 1 heading into next week's second leg

A.C. Milan's Alecandre Pato out for Milan Derby

Via A.C. Milan:

Samba striker Alexandre Pato will not factor in Sunday's Milan derby due to a thigh injury. This will be his fifth game out.

Pato has played well since arriving at Milan from Brazil in early 2008. His loss will be felt.

Carling Cup Live Blog: Manchester City v Manchester United at MEN

SCFC has Manchester City by 2 tonight.

Go to the Manchester Evening News website for the -- Carling Cup Live Blog

Zlatan Ibrahimovic misses Italy, but just a little

Barcelona and Swedish international striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic noted that he misses Italy while at the Football Oscars. Ibrahimovic said to the media on hand:

"I like Barcelona but I miss Italy. I haven't been back to Milan since I left not even to do a bit of shopping."

Via Football Italia

Yakir Lusky on trial with Seattle Sounders?

24-year-old Israeli midfielder Yakir Lusky is reported to have an upcoming trial with the Seattle Sounders FC.

The former Hapoel Tel Aviv attacking midfielder also competed on Israel's youth national sides, but has been out of soccer for four months.

He was last seen at Hapoel Ashkelon Israel's third-tier league.

Anyone else hear about this?

Via IMScouting's Global News

A.C. Milan's David Beckham stirs up the Derby pot

Midfielder David Beckham drops some derby knowledge to the masses recently.

Via IMScouting's Global News

And don't forget to check out the A.C. Milan - Inter Milan Derby Coverage Center

More Interviews/Profiles upcoming...

FYI: More MLS, collegiate, and global soccer interviews on the way...

Internazionale - Inter Milan Striker Samuel Eto'o will follow the Derby and knows Inter will defeat A.C. Milan

A.C. Milan now trail the Serie A leaders by six points with the Derby della Madonnina either closing or extending Inter's lead.

Samuel Eto'o speaking from the African Cup of Nations is not concerned with A.C. Milan's challenge.

Via Goal.com

Souleymane Camara paces Montpellier in Ligue 1 action

Souleymane Camara, a striker from Senegal, scored in the 58th minute to lead Montpellier over Nice in Ligue 1 action.

With the victory, Montpellier now sit third in the table after 20 matches.

2009-10 Portuguese Liga - Two club race as Braga and Benfica both win

Braga took three away point at Académica after a two-goal victory (0-2) and Benfica also won on the road defeating Marítimo 0-5.

Both clubs are tied with 39 points after 16 matches.

More Arsenal Transfer Rumours in January 2010 as Philippe Senderos looks ready to move via loan to Celtic

Defender Philippe Senderos will leave Arsenal this summer, but until his contract runs out, the player looks like he will be moving north to Scotland.

Read on Arsenal's Philippe Senderos off to Celtic?

January 2010 Serie A Transfer Rumours -- Serbian striker Danijel Aleksic to join Genoa

18-year-old Serbian striker Danijel Aleksic will move to Italian side Genoa via media reports out of the forward's country.

Genoa sits mid-table at 11th in the 2009-10 Serie A season.

Via IMScouting.com

Brilla Javier Hernandez contra Toluca ~ Javier Hernandez shines versus Toluca

Chivas de Guadalajara's Javier Hernandez scored a brace against Toluca.

The video can be viewed at IMScouting.com's comprehensive site.

View VIDEO: Javier Hernandez's (Chivas) Brace v Toluca

Samba striker Vagner Love to join Brazilian side Flamengo

One of the coolest names in the global game, Vagner Love, looks ready to remain in Brazil as reports note the Samba international will remain in the country with Flamengo.

Via IMScouting.com News

Tottenham Hotspur Transfer Rumours -- Giovani dos Santos off to Portsmouth?

Read on -- Portsmouth hope to bring in dos Santos

Real Salt Lake news source - Keepin' It Real - finishes site upgrades

Just wanted to point out...

A fantastic news source for Real Salt Lake just upgraded.

Check out the new site -- Keepin' It Real

Arsenal Transfer Rumours -- Newcastle United interested in Jack Wilshere

Go here for the news -- Jack Wilshere on loan to Newcastle United?

23/1/10 - Derby della Madonnina: Inter Milan (Internazionale) and AC Milan to battle in famous derby - Coverage Center

One week until one of the game's greatest rivalry matches -- Derby della Madonnina.

Soccer City FC will be listing all the latest news and reports leading up to the big match. And please leave links in the comments area if you have them. Ciao!

+ Pato out
+ Beckham speaks
+ Samuel Eto'o unfazed by A.C. Milan challenge
+ Inter's Ernesto Paolillo upset with A.C. Milan Goal.com
+ Inter's Maicon speaks about Bari draw Goal.com

Arsenal Transfer Rumour - Lyon's Maxime Gonalons heading to the Gunners this summer?

Arseanal transfer rumours continue to motor on...

First, there is the report that Mario Madzukic was scouted by the Gunners.

Now, a report out of the U.K. has Lyon midfielder Maxime Gonalons heading to London via transfer this summer. Will it happen? The France to Arsenal pipleline is as strong as ever.

Via IMScouting.com News

In any language, Chelsea dispatched the Black Cats of Sunderland with a seven goal effort

If these translations aren't correct, my apologies, just utilizing Google Translate.

+ Chelsea FC puntuación de siete goles ante el Sunderland humildes

+ Valutazione Chelsea sette gol contro i negri Gatti di Sunderland

+ Chelsea mencetak tujuh gol untuk mengalahkan Black Cats of Sunderland

16/1/10 Transfer Rumours for Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham United, Internazionale, Inter Milan, Manchester City, and Manchester United

And here we go...

Sandro to Tottenham now off!

Which is odd, since it was on for several days.

Internacional vice-chairman Fernando Carvalho, "We could sell Sandro to another European club in the summer - we'll see," said to media in Brazil.

Wow! Did not see this coming.

Via Footballpress.net

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Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini points to his days in Italy with Internazionale as the point where he became focused on now Napoli midfielder Marek Hamsik.

Several clubs including Manchester United are keen to sign Hamsik.

Who will win his transfer?

Via EPL Transfer Rumors

------------ next -------------

Italian clubs - Catania, Chievo and Parma - may approach Inter Milan about Chilean attacking midfielder Luis Jimenez.

The 25-year-old is currently on loan at West Ham United.

Via Footballpress.net

Inter Milan set to transfer Luis Jimenez, will it alter his loan spell at West Ham United?

Italian clubs - Catania, Chievo and Parma - may approach Inter Milan about Chilean attacking midfielder Luis Jimenez.

The 25-year-old is currently on loan at West Ham United.

Via Footballpress.net

Man City and Roberto Mancini have a real interest in Napoli's Marek Hamsik in latest transfer rumour

Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini points to his days in Italy with Internazionale as the point where he became focused on now Napoli midfielder Marek Hamsik.

Several clubs including Manchester United are keen to sign Hamsik.

Who will win his transfer?

Via EPL Transfer Rumors

16/1/10 -- Massive day for both Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur as the top four EPL clubs begin to take shape in the New Year

Several vital matches today, but let's focus in on Chelsea v Sunderland and Tottenham v Hull City.

Here are mini previews w/predictions -- Tottenham face off against Tigers as Hull comes to White Hart Lane later today and also If Chelsea are to remain at the top of the Prem. table, a win against Sunderland is vital

And here is one more news item -- See ya Seol! Ki-hyeon out at Fulham via mutual consent

Felda United off to solid start in the newest Premier League Malaysia campaign

Malaysian outfit Felda United now sit second in Premier League Malaysia's table. Felda is hoping for promotion from the second-tier league to Super League Malaysia.

On Friday, Felda dispatched Sarawak 4-1.

2010 WPS Mock Draft

Kevin Albertina, lead writer at Women's Soccer Weekly, published a 2010 WPS Mock Draft as the real draft begins tomorrow at 10am in Philadelphia.

1. Atlanta-Tobin Heath, MF, North Carolina…..While Atlanta needs defenders, they won’t be able to pass up the most talented player in the draft. A player you can build a team around and will make her teammates better.

2. Boston-Lauren Cheney, F, UCLA….Another team that needs defense, but Cheney is too good to pass on. Strong player and can get off a shot in tight space. Composed. Equally adept at shooting or passing. A lot of National Team experience.

3. FC Gold Pride-Kelley O’Hara, Stanford…..Gold Pride needs a scoring punch and O’Hara should pair well with Sinclair. Fast and tenacious. A born scorer who can also set up others.

4. Chicago-Casey Nogueira, F, North Carolina…..Chicago also needs scoring and Nogueira fits. One of the greatest clutch scorers in college soccer. The only thing lacking is consistency.

5. Los Angeles-Whitney Engen, D, North Carolina…..With Falk and Franko gone, LA needs a central defender and there is none better than Engen. Determined defender and tackler in the mode of Rachel Buehler.

6. Sky Blue FC-Brittany Taylor, D, Connecticut…..Sky Blue will need a central defender that can step right in for Rampone and Asante. Taylor is a tough central defender and also has played with Sky Blue’s W-League affiliate which could be a key here as well.

7. Washington-Ali Riley, D, Stanford…..The Freedom need to shore up their defense and Riley will help. Very good defensively, but can be an offensive threat on forward runs as well.

8. Los Angeles-Nikki Washington, MF, North Carolina…..With Abily gone, LA looks to Washington. Suffered an injury in the fall, but when healthy, she is one of the most exciting mids in women’s soccer. Very dangerous on the right side and can also play forward.

9. Los Angeles-Kaley Fountain, F/D, Wake Forest…..A versatile player who can play both ends of the field. 11 goals and 10 assists in her senior season at Wake. Perhaps, another Brittany Bock.

10. FC Gold Pride-Becky Edwards, MF/D, Florida State…..The best defensive mid in the draft. Can shut down good forwards. Sees the field and distributes well. Played defender most of career.

11. Boston-Nikki Marshall, F/D, Colorado…..Another versatile player who is a solid forward for Colorado. Can fill the need at defender as well. Started all 6 games for DiCicco in 2008 U-20 World Cup as a central defender.

12. FC Gold Pride-Kelsey Davis, GK, Portland…..A tough call between Davis or Naeher. Very athletic keeper in the mode of Hope Solo. Extensive junior national team experience. Career goals against under 0.45 at Portland.

13. Philadelphia-Katie Schoepfer, F, Penn State…..Philly needs a scorer and Schoepfer will provide that. Scored 9 goals in just 6 games for U-23 team in 2009. A good target forward.

14. Los Angeles-Gina DiMartino, F/MF, Boston College…..The Sol get their 2nd DiMartino in a week. Like her sister Tina, she has great with the ball at her feet and is an excellent passer.

15. Chicago-Alyssa Naeher, GK, Penn State-The Red Stars need a backup for Jonsson. Starting keeper for the 2008 U-20 World Cup champions. Decent size and excellent agility. Just called up to USWNT camp.

16. Boston-Ashlyn Harris, GK, North Carolina-Boston also needs a keeper and they get Harris. Aggressive keeper who shut out 5 opponents in 6 NCAA Tournament games in 2009.

17. Saint Louis-Kristi Eveland, D, North Carolina-Barcellos addresses playoff weakness against Sky Blue by getting a solid right back. Great speed and size and can be a weapon on corners with her heading ability.

18. Washington-Carolyn Blank, MF, West Virginia-A tough, aggressive defensive mid that will enable the Freedom to move Homare Sawa into the attack where she can be most effective.

19. Saint Louis-Kiersten Dallstream, F, Washington State-Athletica adds an offensive threat to team with Aluko and Edlund. Scored 13 goals and 7 assists for WSU in 2009. Versatile…played outside defender with 2008 U-20 team.

20. FC Gold Pride-Kat Reynolds, D/F, Santa Clara-Gold Pride gets another versatile player who can play several positions. Adds depth defensively for FCGP.

Note: Michelle Enyeart would have undoubtedly been a 1st round pick if it weren’t for her late season injury. I wasn’t sure whether any team will take a chance in the first two rounds on a player not likely to be able to play until June or July.

Also, I wouldn’t be surprised if Los Angeles packages a couple of their picks to move up.

2010 MLS SuperDraft: Round 3 Pick 44 FC Dallas Select Eric Alexander

Find his interview here -- 2010 MLS Combine/2010 MLS SuperDraft Player Interviews

2010 MLS SuperDraft: Round 3 Pick 38 FC Dallas Select Jason Yeisley

Find his interview here -- 2010 MLS Combine/2010 MLS SuperDraft Player Interviews

2010 MLS SuperDraft; Round 2 Pick 28 San Jose Earthquakes Select Justin Morrow

Find his interview here -- 2010 MLS Combine/2010 MLS SuperDraft Player Interviews

2010 MLS SuperDraft: Round 2 Pick 27 Seattle Sounders FC Select Mike Seamon

Find his interview here -- 2010 MLS Combine/2010 MLS SuperDraft Player Interviews

2010 MLS SuperDraft: Round 2 Pick 25 New England Revolution Select Seth Sinovic

Find his interview here -- 2010 MLS Combine/2010 MLS SuperDraft Player Interviews

2010 MLS SuperDraft: Round 2 Pick 23 Colorado Rapids Select Ross LaBauex

Find his interview here -- 2010 MLS Combine/2010 MLS SuperDraft Player Interviews

2010 MLS SuperDraft: Round 2 Pick 17 Philadelphia Union Select Toni Stahl

Find his interview here -- 2010 MLS Combine/2010 MLS SuperDraft Player Interviews

2010 MLS SuperDraft: Round 1 Pick 15 Real Salt Lake Select Collen Warner

Find his interview here -- 2010 MLS Combine/2010 MLS SuperDraft Player Interviews

2010 MLS SuperDraft: Round 1 Pick 14 New York RedBulls Select Austin da Luz

Find his interview here -- 2010 MLS Combine/2010 MLS SuperDraft Player Interviews

2010 MLS SuperDraft: Round 1 Pick 2 New York RedBulls Select Tony Tchani

Find his interview here -- 2010 MLS Combine/2010 MLS SuperDraft Player Interviews

University of Denver midfielder Collin Audley Interview

Photo Credit: Rich Clarkson and Associates
Former University of Denver midfielder Collin Audley is hoping to land a professional contract in the coming weeks - be it Major League Soccer, another North American league, or overseas - Audley armed with the self-belief that he can play at the next level is ready to begin his professional career.

Before speaking with the midfielder, respected Colorado soccer journalist George Tanner, operator of the soccer news website, ColoradoSoccerNow.com, offered up his assessment of the player.

The Pioneers, under coach Bobby Muuss, are an extremely aggressive bunch, and Audley has been their field leader. He is fierce on a 50-50 ball. With the ball at his feet, he can distribute, attack or simply possess.

He is poised when the Pioneers are down a goal and in the hunt for the equalizer. He is a solid defender when the opposition is pressing. He was perhaps Denver's most versatile player in 2009.

His fitness is excellent, and he has a well-rounded skill set. He will need to add some muscle to his frame to compete at the professional level.

Below follows Collin Audley's Q & A:

Q. You were named captain in '09, now that you have been able to reflect on the honor, what are your thoughts?

I actually served as a co-captain my junior year so it was a pretty easy transition for me at first because I got to learn from the captains before me. The captains that served at DU before me were great leaders and had a lot of quality. They all had very strong personalities that were shown almost every day. This allowed me to just lead by example through my play and I just kind of got to be myself.

This year while being captain I was asked to take on more responsibility and felt I had to do more than I'm used to both on and off the field. It was definitely a challenge and I think a lot of people don't realize how much effort goes into being a captain. Obviously it is a huge honor to be named a captain of any team and it was a special time in my life and playing career at the University of Denver.

Of course I look back on the season wishing it had gone differently but I am very proud of my time at DU and felt that I was an influential part of the program.

Q. And the season, are you happy with the team and your individual performance?

Our season this year was very interesting and not at all what I expected. I have watched 10 or 15 games in the last month from the last two seasons and it has become clear to me that this last year the team underperformed. Soccer is pretty simple because all you have to do is score more than the other team to win.

On too many occasions we weren't doing this. We weren't scoring enough and we were getting scored on too much. As a team there wasn't a lot of problems off the field but there was definitely an issue with the mentality of the team as a whole. Part of this I think was due to a lack of experience and some of it was just what happens to teams sometimes when they are having a tough season. I think Liverpool is a good example of this.

I felt that we tried to play attractive soccer and we were very capable of beating teams but when it came down to it we just didn't have enough this season. We had a very talented team and a team with some great people so it was fun to be
around every day.

I am happy with the way the team came together and made a push at the end of the season but unfortunately there were strong teams in our conference this year and both New Mexico and Sacramento State deserved to make the tournament.

Individually I was very frustrated for most of the season because I was dealing with an injury that I am just now getting back to full health and fitness from. I never felt like I was contributing as much as I could on the field and I think that this hurt the team because I was a big part of what we were trying to do.

I couldn't perform as well and as consistently as I know I am capable of and this was incredibly frustrating for me. I think everyone on our team had big ideas about what the team could accomplish and what each individual could accomplish. I ended up with a decent amount of points and most of them came in crucial games for us so that is always a great feeling but I have high expectations for myself and for my teammates so I think it was disappointing to see us not meet our goals and expectations.

Even though I didn't play as well as I had liked I was still named to the MPSF All-Federation 1st Team for the second year in a row which is a huge honor because there are some very talented players on that list and I wish them all the best as well.

Q. And the experience of having your program host the Mountain Pacific Sports Federation Tournament, were you excited to have an opportunity to play the tournament at your home field?

I thought it was a great opportunity for us to host the tournament because the University of Denver has incredible athletic programs and equally impressive facilities. The program recently finished building the new soccer stadium which was a huge project and something that people had been talking about for a long time.

The University of Denver has arguably the best facilities and necessities to run a great tournament but unfortunately mother nature did not get the memo. Right when the tournament began a huge snow storm moved in over the area for the weekend and dropped a couple feet of snow.

Of course the fields were plowed and for the circumstances, they were in greeat shape but it did put a damper on things and I think the other teams were definitely a little rattled about it. Hopefully the school will get another opportunity and the weather will hold up.

Q. Are you going to explore professional options?

I don't think there is anything I love to do more than play soccer and most people who know me will tell you this. I think that in life you have to do what you love for as long as you can so I am definitely trying to persue a professional career.

Q. Is Denver heading toward being considered one of the nation's elite soccer programs?

Denver has gotten a lot of attention in the last couple years for the strides it has been makinging all of its athletic programs. As for soccer, the women's team have been a very good team for a long time and are constantly winning conference championships and knocking off big teams and that is a testament to the athletic department, the coaching staff, the players, and the tradition they have been forming at DU.

As for the men's soccer program I think that everyone has been working incredibly hard to better the program. There was always some sort of opportunity for us to help the community and we did our best to open up to the community. There was a huge effort from everyone to find a way to get the stadium built and the program and its players are very thankful for all the help.

I think in almost every area the program is getting better and better and is headed towards being one of the best programs in the nation, but as we saw this season the team needs to continue to work harder and get better if it ever wants to compete with and be considered among the best on a regular basis.

Q. What has coach Bobby Muuss meant to your development as a player and as a person?

Coach Muuss is constantly challenging his team to work harder and become better both on and off the field so of course it was no different for me. As a person Coach Muuss has helped me become a much more mature person. Since he has arrived at the University I have developed in a lot of ways.

He expects a lot out of his team not only as players but as people as well. I have definitely become a better representative of the University and have enjoyed the journey. I am thankful for everything he has done for me and wish him the best of luck in the future.

2010 MLS SuperDraft: Will Collin Audley hear his name called at the MLS Draft?

In case you haven't seen the former University of Denver midfielder, here is a short highlight clip via YouTube.

2010 MLS Draft: Irving Garcia improved his stock with a solid combine. Teammate Carlos Aguilar hopes for shot at a professional career as well.

Soccer City FC spoke with former UC Irvine player Carlos Aguilar recently.

Find the interview here: Carlos Aguilar - January 2010 Q and A Interview

D.C. United and Philly with trade on eve of 2010 MLS SuperDraft

Via D.C. United's Behind the Badge

Per @dcunited -- "DCU has acquired GK Troy Perkins by sending Fred, 1st rd. draft pick & allocation money to Phil"

Here is press release from Philadelphia Union

2010 MLS Draft Coverage Center - News on Tony Tchani, Toni Stahl, Austin da Luz, Ike Opara, and all the other draft selectees plus Major League Soccer team-by-team coverage

Send us links and tips in the comments and we will get the info up ASAP...Thanks.

Most pressing news...

+ MLSnet.com's 2010 SuperDraft Page
+ MLS Combine/SuperDraft Interviews

+ Pre-draft swap meet (McCarthy's Musings) Goal.com
+ Revs turn to draft Boston Herald
+ DC United and Philly with first trade
+ 3rd Degree Mock Draft
+ Draft Preview 100 Percent Soccer
+ SBI Mock Draft Soccer By Ives
+ SuperDraft live ESPN Soccernet
+ Mock draft ESPN Soccernet
+ Carrick: Top 20 prospects ESPN Soccernet
+ Galarcep: MLS combine review ESPN Soccernet
+ Carlisle: Teams' needs ESPN Soccernet
+ SuperDraft McCarthy's Musings Goal.com
+ Final MLSDraft Mock Draft MLSDraft.net
+ Late Round Gems MLSDraft.net
+ Combine notes: Prospects now must wait MLSnet.com
+ Team draft needs Goal.com
+ Live MLS Draft Blog via Toronto FC

More News...

+ 2010 MLS SuperDraft Goalkeeper Rankings 3rd Degree
+ 2010 MLS SuperDraft Defender Rankings 3rd Degree
+ 2010 MLS SuperDraft Midfielder Rankings 3rd Degree
+ A Look at the Top Ten Picks from the last five MLS Drafts RedNation Online
+ Article on Irving Garcia and Blair Gavin AZ Central.com
+ UC Irvine's Carlos Aguilar Interview
+ Collin Audley Draft Hopeful (Video)
+ Collin Audley Interview

Fruit and Free Kicks in Philly - Follow the PUMA match ball

Tomorrow at the NSCAA Convention in the City of Brotherly Love, PUMA will unveil the official 2010 WPS match ball. Keep an eye out, you never know where you will find it next.

Don't forget to keep clicking here to find out where the PUMA ball will end up next.

The 2010 Puma WPS match ball to be unveiled at the NSCAA Soccer Convention on Thursday, January 14th

Keep updated on its journey to the convention by clicking here to find out where the Puma soccer ball is heading next...

Liverpool adds Bordeaux's Marouane Chamakh at a cost of £25m in newest transfer rumour

Arsenal, Juventus, and Internazionale were all linked with the Moroccan international but it appears that Chamakh will be calling Anfield home shortly.

Via Goal.com Transfer Center

The 2010 MLS Combine - What we now know

Less than 48 hours until the 2010 MLS SuperDraft and soon the questions will be answered.

The picture is clearer now that the combine has completed.

Former Wake Forest defender Ike Opara looks ready to be heading back to school per Soccer By Ives.

Former Notre Dame player Justin Morrow, a long-time midfielder, utilized his offensive skills to make several runs from his left back position.

Alexander Hoxie scored four goals at the combine. That would be a great name, but this is actually two players - former Indiana Hoosier midfielder Eric Alexander and former William and Mary forward Andrew Hoxie each with a brace.

Tony Tchani, a member of UVA's '09 championship squad, won high marks from both media (Ives and Co. at SBI, Kyle McCarthy, et cetera) and non-MLS player evaluator (Joe Mauceri - Pro Player Pipeline)

MLS Insider Blog is really fantastic and should only get more impressive with time. Check out that new crew of red wine enthusiasts.

It wasn't the same to not have the other top non-MLS player evaluator Buzz Carrick at the combine.

Michael Seamon hopefully will parlay his decent play at the combine into a professional opportunity which continues the strong run of NOVA domination across the NCAA's -- 2009 Final Four (basketball), 2009 FCS Title (football) and now MLS draftee?

Wigan add Steven Gohouri. The defender will fight for a starting eleven spot

Wigan look desperate to remain in the English top flight and the club hopes Gohouri can assist with this task.

Via ESPN Soccernet

2010 MLS Combine Goal From Game One Day Three

Via MLS Insider Blog

Canadian on trial at Crystal Palace

Looks like 18-year-old Evan Barker is on a two-week tryout with Crystal Palace. Click on the link below.

Via Some Canadian Guys Writing About Soccer

2010 MLS Combine Day Three Recap

We will be adding links all day. Keep posted.

+ MLS Combine Top Performers Soccer By Ives
+ MLS Draft Q & A Time Soccer By Ives
+ Day 3 Recap Soccer By Ives
+ Teal Bunbury Talks About Winning the Hermann Trophy Inside Minn. Soccer
+ 2010 MLS Combine Goal From Game One Day Three MLS Insider Blog
+ MLS Combine Matchday Three Soccer By Ives
+ Combine News and Pick'Em Contest American Soccer News - Philly Union
+ Tuesday 5 Up 5 Down MLSDraft.net
+ Player Grades MLSDraft.net
+ Lewis: Schmid offers draft advice MLSnet
+ Finn Stahl finds new home in US MLSnet
+ Combine notes: Gavin has eye on history MLSnet
+ Akpan tries to make rare leap from Ivy MLSnet
+ Combine notes: Tchani's star rising MLSnet
+ Seattle's Schmid talks draft strategies MLSnet

Technical Sessions #11:UCONN: The Best Option: Toni Stahl 2010 MLS Combine/MLS SuperDraft Profile

Photo Credit: Stephen Slade/UConn Athletics
Technical Sessions #11: UCONN: The Best Option

Former University of Connecticut midfielder Toni Stahl, a native of Tuusula, Finland, signed a contract with Major League Soccer prior to the league's combine. With his upcoming selection in Thursday's SuperDraft, Stahl noted that he will enter the league record books as the first player selected from his country.

Finnish Following

According the Stahl the average soccer supporter in Finland acknowledges that there is a soccer league in the United States but knows little about the league or its players. However, a small but growing contingent, now pay attention to the league, partially because of the recent influx of former English Premier League players. "There are people who follow American soccer," Stahl said via phone last week. "They know is it a good league, a very developing league."

Stahl to Storrs

Stahl who knew little about the collegiate game here in the U.S. relied on guidance from his ex-coach Riku Hirn and his adviser Miikka Gerho when deciding on the right college. Both men pointed to Storrs and the University of Connecticut. "They helped me decide on the best option and I am thankful because this has been the best four years of my life," the midfielder said. "It was the right decision."

Stahl left UCONN this fall as one of the program's most decorated players culminating in being awarded the 2009 Big East Midfielder of the Year. More than awards and accolades, the relationships that Stahl forged with his teammates are what matters most as he said:

"We have something special going on at UCONN. There is a special bond with my teammates. They helped me to become a better player, a more mature player. The atmosphere is great."

National Calling

As with any professional player, Stahl has a self-belief that he will one day represent his nation in international competition. "It would be an honor to play for the national team," Stahl said. "I want to wake the people of Finland up with my play."

Joining Major League Soccer

Stahl, who has been one of the top performers over the first two days of the combine, was happy to sign with the league before the draft, an option few players are afforded. "I was very excited; I came to America and UCONN and this was one of my goals," Stahl said. "I pursued my dream of becoming a professional. It is very rewarding to join MLS."

2010 MLS Combine Day Two Recap

+ Game Two Review from Day Two Pro Player Pipeline
+ Game One Review from Day Two Pro Player Pipeline
+ A recap of Day Two Soccer America
+ MLS Combine Notebook Day Two Kyle McCarthy, Goal.com
+ MLS Insider Blog A great deal of videos, et cetera
+ MLS Combine Day Two sees prospects improve SBI
+ MLS Combine: Matchday Two SBI
+ 2010 MLS SuperDraft Goalkeeper Rankings at 3rd Degree (Buzz Carrick)
+ Revolutionsoccer.net's Coverage more updates at the site
+ Monday's Combine Report MLSDraft.net
+ Monday's 5 Up, 5 Down MLSDraft.net
+ Buuuunbury...Buuuuunbury* (for Canada) The 24th Minute
+ 2010 MLS Combine - 2010 MLS SuperDraft Interview: UVA's Tony Tchani
+ It's Called Football - Draft Edition (Podcast)

Send links and tips to SCFC so that we can update the board...

2010 MLS Combine - 2010 MLS SuperDraft Interview: UVA's Tony Tchani

Photo Credit: Matt Riley/UVa Media Relations
University of Virginia midfielder Tony Tchani, a Generation adidas signee, looks certain to be a top five pick in next week's 2010 Major League Soccer SuperDraft after a strong showing at the league's combine.

Tchani answered some quick questions about: Cameroon's chances at the African Cup of Nations, his penalty kick at the College Cup title game against Akron, and his thoughts on beginning his career with MLS before heading to Florida.

Q. What are you thoughts on beginning your professional career in MLS?

It is a dream come true because I always wanted to play soccer at the high level since I was little.

Q Are you happy to have a guaranteed contract as a 2010 Generation adidas signee?

Yea of course I was because it is the first step into my career and will need to prove myself.

Q. With all the MLS SuperDraft happenings, will you still keep a focused eye on Cameroon at 2010 African Cup of Nations?

Yea of course because it is my country and I hope that we win it.

Q. Out of Gabon, Zambia, and Tunisia who will be toughest test in the group stage?

I think it will be Tunisia because they have a good team.

Q. When you stepped up for the first PK in the national championship, what was running through your mind or was it clear?

Nothing really because I'm used to taking a pk and I'm always confident about it. That's why I always take the first one.

Stuart Holden seen at Bolton via No Short Corners

Over at No Short Corners, a post with Stuart Holden at Bolton -- Yep, Holden's with Bolton

2010 MLS Combine: Goal via Irving Garcia in Game Two, Day Two

Via MLS Insider Blog

2010 MLS Combine - Day Two Game One Goal Highlights

Via MLS Insider Blog

African Nations off to a flyer after tragic week

After the drama and tragedy of last week's gun attack on the Togo squad it was a welcome relief to concentrate on football matters when Mali entertained the hosts in the opening game of the African Cup of Nations this weekend.

But the sombre pre-match atmosphere and two minutes silence showed how much of a cloud will hang over this tournament, whose very existence is being questioned.

The tragic deaths of three Togolese officials in the shooting understandably led the team to pull out of the tournament. They have now expressed a desire to return, although this seems unlikely to happen.

I can understand their initial decision. Football matters very little when incidents like this occur. No matter what Shankly once quipped, football is not more important than life and death, so pulling out to grieve is the right course of action.

However, abandoning the whole tournament would, in my opinion, be letting the terrorists win. The African Cup of Nations is the chance for the continent to show off its talent to the rest of the world. Like many big tournaments there will be people who will be determined to disrupt it to meet their own political ends. Football and politics do not mix, and although the sport was bloodily dragged into the debate last week, they should leave it the authorities to deal with the killers and let the festival of football continue, as much as a show of defiance as anything else.

Things got off to the perfect start on Sunday with as dramatic a game as you will ever wish to see. The hosts Angola swept into a 4-0 lead and with 11 minutes to go looked home and dry. Even at 4-2 going into injury time the game looked done and dusted. But fans have learnt to expect the unexpected at this tournament and we were shown why when Mali equalised in the 95th minute to seal a dramatic draw.

Indeed, the match as a whole would have surprised many African Cup of Nations betting experts.

The game had everything that is good about African football. Yes the defending and goalkeeping may not be world-class, but the attacking, flair, desire and passion was all to see, culminating in 90 minutes of sheer entertainment, a treat for anyone with an interest in football betting.

If the organisers want the football to do the talking and tell the terrorists they won't win, this was perfect way to start.

2010 MLS Combine: More news items as players head into second day of games

+ Draft hopefuls cope with the conditions via Ridge Mahoney, Soccer America

+ MLS Breakdown: Unlikely weather... via Kyle McCarthy, Goal.com

+ Story on Teal Bunbury via Kyle McCarthy, MLSnet.com

+ MLS Combine Notes via Kyle McCarthy, MLSnet.com

2010 African Cup of Nations: Malawi v Algeria Preview and Prediction

Well after yesterday's dramatic draw, let's hope today's matches (Malawi v Algeria and Côte d'Ivoire v Burkina Faso) don't fail to live up to the strong start of the tournament.

Malawi boast Chiukepo Msowoya who led the Flames with six goals from the qualification rounds. 27-year-old Esau Kanyenda also has finishing ability.

Algeria too has attacking options with ageless Rafik Saïfi
a capable goal scorer.

Prediction: Malawi 2-1 in a shock upset as the Flames send the 2010 World Cup qualifiers to the loss column.

Victor Moses to Manchester City gains steam...or does it?

Crystal Palace's Victor Moses is a target of several clubs including Manchester City, Liverpool, Tottenham, and Nottingham Forest.

Younes Kaboul is the worth £14m according to Portsmouth; Manchester City and Sunderland ponder bids

Defender Younes Kaboul is rated at £14m by current club Portsmouth as other EPL sides, including Manchester City and Sunderland, watch closely.

Via Daily Mail

2010 Major League Soccer Combine: Day One Wrap Up

+ Soccer By Ives -- Day One Rewind

+ Joe Mauceri with excellent analysis of the game -- 2010 Combine Day 1 (Game 2) – *UPDATED* and 2010 Combine Day 1 (Game 1) – *UPDATED*

+ Soccer By Ives -- A Quick Recap of Day 1

+ Kyle McCarthy at MLSnet.com -- Combine notes: Mwanga absent in Florida and Draft dreams for roommates Bone, Opara

+ MLSDraft.net -- 5 up 5 down

+ And -- Give and Go: Wake Forest's Austin da Luz at Goal.com

[Update] - Kyle McCarthy at Goal.com -- MLS Combine Notebook Day One

+ Keeping It Real with Draft Resources
What are we missing? Let us know if you find any other day one coverage...

2010 MLS Combine Interview: Wake Forest's Austin da Luz

Give & Go: Wake Forest's Austin da Luz at Goal.com

2010 MLS Combine: Game one goal highlights via MLS Insider Blog

Via MLS Insider Blog

2010 MLS Combine Game One: William and Mary's Andrew Hoxie with first goal of event

Via MLS Insider Blog

2010 MLS Combine: Second Game Starting Lineups

Via @kylejmccarthy

Jabulani (4-4-2): Haggerty; Welch, Clack, Tangey, Aiyegbusi; Estrada, Okugo, Nakazawa, Duka; Schilawski, Bunbury

Predator X (4-4-2): Bubonja; Borak, Edginton, Ream, Sinovic; Stephens, Bone, Gavin, da Luz; Chinn, Akpan

Bone and da Luz could be exciting...

2010 MLS Combine: Austin da Luz goal versus UNC-Wilmington

HT MLS Insider Blog

2010 MLS Combine: First Game Starting Lineups

Via @kylejmccarthy

Condivo (4-4-2): Perk; Edwards, Kinney, Opara, Morrow; Vroom, Alexander, Tchani, Loyd; Dike, Hoxie

F50i (4-4-2): Johnson; Sarkodie, Cardenas, McVea, Davis; Milien, LaBaeux, Yates, Becerra; Bouemboue, Wiedeman

[Update] Second-half changes - again via @kylejmccarthy

Condivo: Perk; Barry (L'ville), Kinney, Opara, Peterman (S.D.); Loyd, Thomas (N.D.), Yanez (L'ville); Kissi (Dayton), Elenz-Martin (Brown)

F50i: Moore (S'ford); Herold (U-17), Hedevag (UCSB), Watson-Siriboe (UConn), Davis; LeBeaux, Yates, O'Brien, Beccera; Garcia, Walker

2010 MLS Combine Interview: Virginia's Ross LaBauex

+ Give & Go: University of Virginia's Ross LaBauex at Goal.com

2010 MLS Combine Interview: Penn State's Jason Yeisley

Penn State forward Jason Yeisley will competing against a deep forward class at this weekend’s MLS Combine. Yeisley, one of the nation’s top scholar athletes as the 2009 men's soccer recipient of the Lowe's Senior CLASS Award, led Penn State to a undefeated home record as well as to the brink of a Big Ten title.

The First Team All-Big Ten forward kindly spoke with Soccer City FC about this weekend's combine.


Photo Credit: Penn State Athletics
Q. Let's start with the obvious, how is the knee?

The knee is 100%. I owe so much to the medical staff and trainers at Penn State. They did an amazing job of not only helping me get back to health, but they helped me return to being able to play division one soccer. When I was playing this season, my knee felt like nothing ever happened and I was able to play without even thinking of the injury.

Q. What did the Lowe's Award mean to you, to be recognized as a student-athlete?

I take a lot of pride in everything I do in life, whether it is on the field or in the classroom, I always try to do my best. The Lowe's award is nice but I am not concerned with individual awards. I am, however, extremely pleased that through the Lowe's Award, the Race For Adam Foundation has received some publicity. I met Adam Recke my freshman year in college shortly after he was diagnosed with Niemann-Pick Disease. His father was one of my teachers in middle school and over my time at Penn State my relationship with Adam and his family has grown significantly. Adam has been our honorary captain 3 or 4 times and we have tried to do everything we can to support them and raise awareness of Niemann-Pick Disease and the Race For Adam Foundation (RaceForAdam.org)

Q. With time off since your last collegiate game and the MLS Combine, how do you think your first touch will be?

I have been training a lot during this break. I have been keeping up my fitness from the season and getting plenty of touches on the ball. I am hoping the first touch will pick right back up where I left off at the end of the season.

Q. What have you focused on heading into the combine?

Like I said, I have been training a lot, especially working on my fitness level. I am going to focus on doing what I do best at the combine and not try to change anything that got me to this point in my career.

Q. Who did you pattern your game after growing up, if anyone?

Ruud van Nistelrooy. He is a great player and goal scorer. Growing up, I always enjoyed watching him at Manchester United.

Q. Is the Big Ten an elite soccer conference?

I think the Big Ten is one of the best soccer conferences. There is a high level of competition between all of the teams and we had several ranked teams in this year's NCAA tournament.

MLS Insider Blog bringing buckets of combine coverage

Let's be honest. This is what many were waiting for and thankfully now we have it.

Here are the first salvo's from the the blog.

+ Video of Bright Dike and Mike Thomas - Notre Dame
+ Game One Preview
+ Combine Thoughts From the Plane

Keep tuned to MLS Insider Blog

2010 MLS Combine Interview: Notre Dame's Justin Morrow

Notre Dame midfielder and senior co-captain Justin Morrow hopes to make his mark at the 2010 MLS Combine. Morrow, who started all 44 matches over the last two seasons, joins Michael Thomas and Bright Dike as one of three Fighting Irish players arriving today in Florida. Midway through the season, he made a position switch from the midfield to left back. Will this new-found versatility be the key to his professional future?

He kindly spoke with Soccer City FC earlier this week.


Photo Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski
Q. Is there an advantage to heading down to the combine with Bright and Mike?

I would say that there is an advantage to heading down to the combine with Bright and Mike because it makes me feel more comfortable. Anytime you're thrown into a big group of people where you're not really sure where you fit in, it's calming to see people you know. There's an even bigger advantage having them on my team at the combine because I've obviously played with them before and I we're comfortable playing together which is beneficial.

Q. How difficult was the switch from mid to left back this season?

I don't think the switch between the positions was that difficult because of the good players around me. Anytime I messed up they were there to cover me and that made me feel really comfortable when I was just learning the position.

Q. What was the biggest adjustment with the switch?

The switch was most difficult in the beginning but like most things, I think I learned a lot over time. At first, I always felt like I wasn't doing well enough but I learned to trust my instincts and just play.

Q. Are you satisfied with the season both from a team and individual perspective?

This season was full of ups and downs and it ended up a little more disappointing than we had hoped. We made a great run in the Big East Tournament which got us into the NCAA Tournament. But to fall short in the Big East Final and then lose in the second round to a team we'd lost to last year was definitely not something we were satisfied with. But we have great coaches and I know they will be working the guys hard this off-season to get them back on track for next year.

Q. How do you think your first touch will be this weekend?

Like most of the players, I'm sure this will be the first time we've played competitively for a couple weeks so it's all about getting comfortable as quickly as possible. I've been preparing really hard and that gives me confidence that I'll be ready for this weekend.

Q. Will you show off your versatility at the combine if needed by playing in the back or mid?

I'll play wherever they want me to play. I feel my versatility is one of my strengths so I would definitely change positions in a game if it gave me another look from the coaches.