Commissioner now allowed to have talks with players

"We believe these stadiums provide an enormous value to the youth soccer community, provide value for all the other events that take place there, and we've been able to deliver value back into the community," said Garber. "We're very much looking forward to continuing discussions here in Salt Lake to try and create the public, private ownership."

FUTURE HOME IN ALAMODOME: Garber issued a statement Thursday saying San Antonio would be a great home for Major League Soccer, and with several teams up for sale, Garber said a team could be in San Antonio as early as next season.

"As one of the country's fastest-growing and most diverse cities, MLS is convinced that San Antonio is an ideal home for a Major League Soccer club. We are currently in discussions with several potential ownership groups for the San Antonio MLS team, and we will work closely with Mayor (Ed) Garza and the soccer community in San Antonio to assist with the goal of bringing Major League Soccer to San Antonio in 2006."

The league stipulated, however, that the city must pre-sell 5,000 season tickets by Aug. 17 to be considered for a franchise in 2006, in addition to securing an ownership group.

Even if the team doesn't receive a relocated franchise in 2006, it is in the fray for the 14th expansion team in 2007 along with Houston, Seattle, Cleveland, Philadelphia and St. Louis.

CHEERING FOR REAL: As he does at every game he attends, Garber said he'll be sitting with the owner rooting on the home team.

"I always root for the home team, so the fans can be entertained and happy," said Garber.

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E-mail: jedward@desnews.com