WASHINGTON, DC (May 29, 2008) USSoccerPlayers -- Brian McBride's impending return to Major League Soccer has produced multiple theories, and Mo Johnston joins a soccer show.
Working The Rules
As we expectantly wait for a thorough explanation of how Brain McBride will end up in Chicago, it might be worth remembering that Danny Szetela was a lock for North Jersey just before he ended up in Columbus.
Obviously, McBride and the likelihood of designated player money suggest a different outcome than the lottery that put Szetela in C-Bus, but at the same time there are rules that MLS might actually choose to follow.
We're taking it for granted that McBride will somehow opt against Toronto, even though they hold right of first refusal and there's no such thing as even limited free agency in MLS. After all, it worked for the other designated players. Splitting the McBride return into right to sign and then right to sign as a designated player only complicates things for teams not named Toronto.
As easy as it would be to compare the FC's situation to the Maple Leafs, where they have a record of spending on talent, the same organization owns the Raptors where they don't. At the same time, Chicago making the big statement by spending on two designated players and losing the personnel to make that work might also be a stretch.
Regardless, treating this like a problem with an obvious result might not make as much sense as some would have us believe. After all, this is the same League that thought it was a heck of an idea to low-ball Kasey Keller.
Not Just A Manager
Toronto FC manager Mo Johnston - not to be confused with Toronto FC coach John Carver or Toronto FC executive VP and CEO Tom Anselmi - will be part of a weekly studio show for GolTV Canada. Of course we're going to make with the press statements, first from the FC:
“I’m looking forward to working with GolTV and putting together some entertaining shows,” said Johnston. “Hopefully our fans will enjoy it as this program will give them an opportunity to learn a little bit more about Toronto FC along with the latest developments surrounding Major League Soccer.”
And now GolTV Canada's turn:
“The combination of Mo’s expert knowledge, flair and humour will provide supporters of Toronto FC with an entertaining and informative behind the scenes look at Canada’s premier soccer franchise,” said Corey Russell, Vice President of Programming and Production for Insight Sports. “Toronto FC has some of the most passionate fans in all of Canadian sports and we look forward to bringing their supporters an exclusive inside look on their team from Mo Johnston’s unique perspective.”
In WPS News
Red Star won the fan vote for naming the Chicago Women's Professional Soccer league team. That it's better suited for a Yakov Smirnov influenced American Gladiators character notwithstanding.
