YouTube Video of Toronto FC coverage:

The BBC Football Gossip column is full of talk to European stars coming to play in the MLS. Of note, they mention:

- Former Liverpool striker Robbie Fowler has had talks with LA Galaxy. (News of the World)

- David Beckham could be reunited with former Real Madrid team-mate Luis Figo at LA Galaxy after the Portuguese star was released by Inter Milan. (Sunday Express)

- Chelsea midfielder Claude Makelele could be poised for a move to American side Houston Dynamo. (The People)

Call it the Beckham-effect?

I know that Toronto FC have previously said that they will not be making this type of signing this season, but I want to know who you realistically think they should pursue. Sol Campbell at Centre Back, anyone?

Also of note, the BBC is also reporting that Real Madrid Chairman, Ramon Calderon, is looking to keep Beckham at the club by exploiting a clause in his contract. Yes, Ramon Calderon, the same guy who said no one wanted Beckham in Janurary and referred to him as an “an average cinema actor living in Hollywood.” Good luck with that Olive Branch, pal.

I’m not sure how much of this is alarmist/sensationism, but the BBC is reporting on the potential health risks of frequent long-haul flights that Beckham will have to endure if he continues to play for England while under contract to the LA Galaxy.

Seems, if this is a legitimate concern, he will have to be selective in his travel - and games played.

Also, further following up on yesterday’s post, the BBC has a short audio clip from Alexi Lalas discussing his support for Beckham’s International career.

What do you all think? Worried about your August 4th Toronto Fc tickets? Much ado about nothing?

Sportsnet has and interesting story today on its Soccer page discussing what David Beckham’s recent England recall means for the MLS. Basically, if Steve McClaren continues to recall Beckham for future friendlies and Euro 2008 qualifiers, it could mean that Beckham will miss up to 6 more MLS games. I say more because he has already missed half the season while under contract with Real Madrid.

If I were Alexi Lalas, GM of the LA Galaxy and former Orange-Afroed US star, I would be slightly worried about what, if any, contribution Beckham will be making for the team this year. If coming into the squad halfway through the season isn’t disruptive enough, having him enter only a select few games can only be unsettling for the team as a whole. Understandably, Lalas has been quoted as saying that it is an “honor” for David to be playing for his country and that the LA Galaxy will support him in his desire to play for England. According to this BBC article, however, Lalas has already warned the FA against picking Beckham for “inappropriate” friendlies.

If Beckham continues to make the England roster, and from his current run of form he should, he may even miss the Galaxy / Toronto FC match in August. I know a lot of us are waiting eagerly that day to see one of the world’s best play on our stage, but Country comes first.

Hey, not to worry, the MLS has him tied up for 5 years. We can see him when he’s too hobbled to be of use to England any longer.

Last night’s game was a thrilling first 45 minutes where we were treated to Jeff Cunningham’s 94th MLS goal, and his first for TFC. The second 45 minutes, however, were less than inspiring as the team’s weaknesses (read: defense) was picked apart repeatedly. Given, Angel is not new to the game or to scoring goals in numbers, but his second goal was truly heartbreaking to see. The ball passed by three defenders before finding its way to Angel’s feet, resulting in a gift of a goal and an understandably frustrated Srdjan Djekanovic.

Unfortunately, I couldn’t find tickets to this game, and watched my first Toronto FC game on Sportsnet. Overall, I think that Dobson and Forrest did a good job. I think we’re lucky to have someone of Forrest’s experience on our broadcasting team - I’ve always enjoyed his commentary between Premiership Games. Dobson was good - not great - but having read some negative comments about his abilities recently, I was expecting much worse. Correct me if I’m wrong, but he only mixed the names of players up once. Watching it on the television, however, only serves to remind me of what I’m missing by not being in the Supporter’s Section.

Head over to the Arsenalist’s blog for his commentary on the game and the Supporter’s Section’s antics.

Also, check out the TorontoMLS blog for their player ratings and commentary.

Lastly, if any of you season ticket holders aren’t going to next game, feel free to offer me your tickets. Craigslist is becoming a more competitive market and I’m having trouble making sure I get to every game possible.

Question asked, question answered.

Admittedly, I know only what the BBC has told me so far, however I tossed them into my FIFA ‘07 team and after a half season Anderson is already a 91. Not bad, right?

Quite the stacked midfield that United have now.

Keep visiting this site for all the latest news are rumours surrounding Toronto FC and the MLS.