Don Garber, MLS Commissioner, has announced that no League games will be scheduled during the group stages of next year’s World Cup tournament to be held in South Africa. The dates for the semi-finals and final will also be match-free. This will be welcomed by clubs who lost players yet continued to play matches during the CONCACAF Gold Cup. Garber said that the decision was ’part of MLS' commitment to deepen its connection with the millions of soccer fans in the United States and Canada". For those players not involved, it will also provide a welcome break to recharge batteries.

One player currently lacking time on the pitch is LA Galaxy’s Chris Birchall. The former Coventry City man has been praised by captain Landon Donovan who has said that the only thing Birchall is lacking is actual playing time. He is fully aware of what Birchall’s experience can bring to the team. “He's just a good soccer player.” said Donovan,” He's played a lot of games at a high level and he understands the way the game should be played.”

Another former Premier League star, Darren Huckerby, has announced his retirement from the game. The former Leeds, Newcastle, Manchester City and Norwich City player suffered a hip injury for which he has undergone surgery but the 33-year old has elected to quit rather than not be able to give his best. His contract with San Jose Earthquakes was due to expire at the end of the current season.