This week the voting ends for the 2013 MLS All-Star "Fan XI." I don't vote, mainly because I don't agree with having what amounts to glorified friendly right in the middle of the league season. I still have nightmares about Olave getting hurt against Manchester United a couple of years back. Also, like all All-Star games, it's just a popularity contest, but that's all another story for another article.
If I WERE going to vote, which I'm not, here's how I'd vote. Now I'm not necessarily sticking to the official league list, so this is basically just a Best XI. I'll be using a 4-4-2 formation.
GK: Nick Rimando (RSL)
I know you're all thinking, "Oh here we go, it's a homer best XI." I promise it's not. I really do think Rimando has been the best so far this season. He's made many terrific saves keeping points in hand for RSL, who lead the Supporter's Shield race. Really, what more can you ask of the guy? (Honorable Mention--Donovan Ricketts, Portland Timbers.)
Defenders (4): Matt Hedges (FC Dallas), Matt Besler (Sporting KC), DeAndre Yedlin (Seattle Sounders), Justin Morrow (SJ Earthquakes).
I really think Hedges has been a great consistent performer for Dallas, even though they've cooled off some. Besler is the best defender in MLS for my money right now. I think Seattle is a different team with Yedlin in the lineup, and he's gotten U-20 recognition as well. Morrow is still one of the best in the league in attack and defense for the Quakes. (Honorable Mentions--Jamison Olave, NYRB, Nat Borchers, RSL.)
Midfielders (4): Mike Magee (Chicago Fire), Graham Zusi (Sporting KC), Javier Morales (RSL), Will Johnson (Portland Timbers)
Mike Magee, because DUH! Zusi has been in good form for the USMNT and SKC, Javi is back to his old self pretty much, and says he can still do better! Will Johnson has been the major factor, I believe, in Portland's drive. He has been a huge force. (Honorable Mentions--Atiba Harris, Colorado Rapids and Diego Valeri, Portland Timbers.)
Forwards (2): Jack McInerney (Philadelphia Union) and Marco Di Vaio (Montreal Impact).
These guys have been scoring machines for their respective clubs and have both teams in playoff position, where neither of them were last year. I can't see how I can argue with that. (Honorable Mentions--Camilo, Vancouver Whitecaps and Diego Fagundez, New England Revolution.)
So there you have it. I'd love to see your lists as well!
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