Major League Soccer announced Wednesday the 14 player "Inactive Roster" for the 2007 Sierra Mist All-Star Game, which includes defender/midfielder Jim Brennan, forward Jeff Cunningham and forward Danny Dichio.
The "Inactive Roster" status began when All Star games format became known as "MLS vs the World". Additional inactive selections have been made since the MLS All-Star game day roster is limited to 18 players. In the case any of the original 18 players were unable to participate, substitutions would come from the 14 additional selections. These players are considered MLS All-Stars, and will be listed as such in official League records.
"Congratulations to all the guys on getting their names added to the All Star roster," said Head Coach Mo Johnston. "They all have worked very hard since day one. Obviously Danny and Jeff were not here from the start, but they've both come in and scored some goals for us. Danny is a veteran in our locker room, a leader, as is Brennan. He's our captain and has pretty much played the whole season so far out of his normal position. Jeff as well, his record in this league speaks for itself. I'm happy for all of them."
Brennan and Dichio are both MLS rookies this season, while this is the second time Cunningham has been a part of an All-Star squad. He was named as a reserve in 2005, and scored two goals in their victory over English Premiership club Fulham. They join midfielder Ronnie O'Brien who is active roster. Brennan has started all 16 games this season and has played every single minute, the most of any other player on the team (1440). He also holds the distinction of becoming the first Canadian to score a goal for the club - doing so in a 2-2 draw with Columbus back in May.
Cunningham has started in 7 games since joining from Real Salt Lake and has 3 goals, and 1 assist.
Dichio joined Toronto FC in the middle of April and has started in 12 games this season. He is the team's leading goal scorer with 5, and has added one assist.
The 2007 Sierra Mist All-Star Stars will face Scottish Premier League Champions, Celtic FC, this Thursday, July 19, at Dick's Sporting Goods Park in Colorado.
For a complete list of the this year's inactive players, head to www.MLSnet.com
