MLS Across The Pond

It’s been a week of news for America’s soccer league, but, as fate would have it, most of it has taken place in the UK. With Henry making waves, Donovan about to face off against Dempsey, and Ream possibly about to make a move, the Combine has been more than overshadowed by MLS’s action in Britain.

Today marked Theirry Henry’s triumphant return to Arsenal, where he first made his name as a soccer great. It was as if the Frenchman had never left, and ten minutes after being subbed in Henry found the net for Arsenal for the first time since moving to Barca in 2007. It was his classic goal: Henry gobbled up Alex Song’s through ball and made a sweet shot past the keeper into the bottom right corner, giving the Gunners the lead over Leeds. Quite frankly, if I were Hans Backe (or any New York fan, for that matter) I would be very, very worried about Henry’s future with the Red Bulls, let alone his desire to play, even if he ends up back at Red Bull Arena. There’s no doubt in my mind that Wenger would look to keep Henry for as long as he possibly can, and that he wouldn’t hesitate to dig into his bank account to do so.

Back at Goodson Park, though, Everton awaits the arrival of Fulham, whom they will play in the fourth round of FA Cup action. Fulham will be a tough challenge, and Dempsey comes red-hot off of a hat trick in round three. Everton, though, will surely be ready, as Donovan has looked strong in the start of his loan, and everyone’s favorite keeper, Tim Howard, will be right there behind him. The match will be played over the weekend of January 28th. Be prepared.

Finally, it was reported to Goal.com by Tim Ream’s agent that the Red Bulls defender is in “advanced stages” of discussion for a transfer (that’s transfer with a T, not a loan) to Bolton. “Negotiations between Major League Soccer and Bolton are at an advanced stage and ongoing,” Patrick McCabe told Goal.com via email. “We hope to have a positive resolution for Tim in the next few days.” Well, well, well. It looks like Timmy’s going across the pond after all. To be frank, though, I don’t think he’ll do well. Being a Red Bulls and USA fan, and thus someone who’s seen quite a number of his games, I can say pretty confidently that he’s not ready for the Premier League. And it’s for all the same reasons he barely gets called to the US anymore: he makes mistakes, he gives away passes, and he plays stupid balls. I mean, he won’t exactly flounder anywhere, as he definitely isn’t bad, he just isn’t really good enough to shine. Feel free to debate this in the comments.

That’s that. I have exams next week. Yeah, I’ll do what I can.

Category: MLS