I hope everyone had a great holiday season, I took an extended break over the holidays (Me and the Kid were tearing up FIFA 11) The Silly Season has started up (transfer window is open) so lots of rumors, gossip, and moves. FIFA is going to police it's self with a new committee?

MLS will have it's combine in 5 days and the draft right after, Freddie Ljunberg signed with Celtic so the Sounders are allocated an additional 2nd round pick, here's the rundown on Seattle's picks:

1st round -- 11th overall
2nd round -- 21th overall (Stephen King trade)
2nd round -- 27th overall (Freddie Ljungberg trade)
2nd round -- 29th overall
3rd round -- 47th overall
4th round -- 65th overall

With all those picks could we be trading to move up the draft board?

Tyrone Marshall was signed by the Colorado Rapids,

Only 5 months left to play in the European season, It's a Manchester party at the top of the EPL in England, it's a battle between the big boys in Spain, In Italy my beloved AC Milan are riding a top the table, and in Germany it's Borussia Dortmunds title to lose, PSV look to take the title in Holland, It's very close in France, and finally the Champions League are winding down to the final.

Lets start off with the first "Showboat" of 2011


2010 was the season for Youth in MLS and USA soccer. Two 17 year olds stole the show early and late, and MLS Academies are starting to produce!! Which then makes you wonder, who's next?

Chelsea vs. Aston Villa (EPL) 3-3


In order for soccer to remain entrenched in American Culture I feel it needs soccer specific stadiums to have a place that is uniquely soccer's own. The MLS is slowly making that happen!!


EPL 2010/2011 first half of the season Montage


It's a rarity now a days in the world of soccer, a player staying his whole career at one club. Xavi has done it and reached the 549 game mark over the weekend, Paolo Maldini did it the longest, 25 years and 647 games, but one man has beat them both playing for his club consecutively for 22 years and 1110 games!


Barcelona vs. Levante (La Liga) 2-1


The one trend I hope will slowly disappear in 2011 is the older European player moving to the US for a retirement party. As most of them will learn it is a very strong, fast, and physical league. The technical ability is catching up to the world, the soccer knowledge, and experience is coming into the second generation of players, and the game is being embraced by the nation. With the reserve league back in 2011 and MLS academies producing the MLS will only become stronger and an option for the Younger European player!!


Celtic vs. Rangers (SPL) Old Firm Derby 2-0


The USMNT started training camp today in Carson, CA at the Home Depot Center. Jan 22nd they will play Chile in a friendly and it looks like both teams will be giving it's reserves a run out!


AC Milan vs. AL Alhi (Friendly) 2-1


It's the "Quiz of the Week" the answers are at the bottom so don't cheat or do and impress your friends!!


Arsenal vs. Birmingham (EPL) 3-0


In professional sports contracts are bought and sold, agents, players, and teams get paid. What is not known to much by the public is the underworld of sport agents and the shady world they operate in.


Goal of the Week nominee (U16 game)


Italian soccer is at a cross roads, long gone is the time when the best players flocked to the Serie A, money was abundant, and fans supported their teams. Now in Italy immigration has taken hold, cultures have integrated and some aren't being accepted. This problem has poked it's head out on the pitch and one player has chosen to fight the power!

Manchester United vs. West Brom (EPL) 2-1


If your a soccer fan and live in the northwest you know a little or a lot about the rivalries between Seattle/Portland/Vancouver. There are many stories that have been written and that can be told. One important factor about the rivalry is who wins? This article breaks down the years and victories pretty nicely!!

Assists of the Week