From Deseret News archives:
Will roster moves affect MLS East teams?
Expect D.C. United, Revolution to stay dominant in 2008
Not only did D.C. United part ways with MVP midfielder Christian Gomez, but Eddie Johnson left MLS to join Fulham of the English Premiere League, while several other teams made major changes.
With the 2008 MLS season kicking off this weekend, here's a look at predictions for the 2008 season.
1. D.C. United
2007 record: 16-7-7 (55 points)
Conference finish: First
Coach: Tom Soehn (second season).
Outlook: This franchise is always one step ahead of everyone else, so it's hard not to view the departure of Christian Gomez as anything but a positive. Last year, D.C. United sent Freddy Adu to RSL, a move that freed up salary cap space to sign Luciano Emilio and Fred. As evidenced by their combined 27 goals, and Adu's one goal for Salt Lake before heading to Europe, it was a brilliant move. With the money freed up by Gomez's departure, along with a slew of other guys like Troy Perkins, Bobby Boswell, Joshua Gros and Brian Carroll, D.C. added a bunch of new faces. Most notably is Argentine midfielder Marcelo Gallardo, the team's first designated player. For D.C. United to be successful in not only MLS but the CONCACAF Champions Cup, the SuperLiga and the CONCACAF Champions Cup, he'll need to prove that D.C.'s gamble paid off. The health of Ben Olsen, currently rehabbing offseason ankle surgery, and several other international signings are just as critical.
2. New England Revolution
2007 record: 14-8-8 (50 points)
Conference finish: Second
Coach: Steve Nicol (seventh season).
Outlook: Don't write off the perennial runner-ups just yet. Sure, players like Andy Dorman, Pat Noonan, James Riley and Avery John are no longer with the team, but coach Steve Nichol is the best coach in the Eastern Conference and still has plenty of talent to work with. Matt Reis is still one of the league's best keepers, midfielders Steve Ralston and Shalrie Joseph are among the league's best, and Taylor Twellman should be even more motivated than ever after the league vetoed his transfer to Europe. Don't be surprised if he starts the season red-hot to revive his interest abroad, perhaps hoping for a summer transfer. Either way, the addition of defender Chris Albright will improve the team's backline and there are several youngsters eagerly in the wing to be New England's next rookie of the year. Will it be enough for New England, losers of two straight MLS Cups, to take the next step?
