Here is everything you need to know about MLS and North American soccer this morning:
Ticos takedown
There wasn't much to write home about from the US national team's galling 4-0 loss away to World Cup qualifying hosts Costa Rica on Tuesday night, a harsh reality reflected in our USMNT player ratings. Meanwhile, Armchair Analyst Matt Doyle opines that the team has hit rock bottom.
On hot seat
United States manager Jurgen Klinsmann assumed responsibility for the bad start to the CONCACAF Hexagonal in the aftermath of Tuesday's Costa Rica lesson. Though US Soccer chief Sunil Gulati was non-committal over Klinsmann's future at the helm, Sports Illustrated's Grant Wahl has some strong feelings as to what he thinks should happen next.
Social meeting
Even though Crew SC boss Gregg Berhalter has downplayed a recent meeting with Pachuca's US defender Omar Gonzalez, Andrew King reports that they broached the topic of a possible return to MLS.
Ciao Italia
With an MLS Cup chase afoot, Toronto FC star Sebastian Giovinco says he's not paying attention to his Italy snubs.
Don't count 'em out
Even though Tim Howard is done for the year and Shkelzen Gashi is in doubt for the Western Conference Championship opener, our own Andrew Wiebe insists that the Colorado Rapids can still take MLS Cup.
Leavin' Steven
Following the LA Galaxy's announcement that Steven Gerrard will not be returning to the club, the star midfielder penned a final farewell letter to the team's fans.
We love lists!
The year will soon come to a close, so we're continuing our gradual wrap-up with a trio of Top 5 lists. Sam Stejskal offers up his top breakout players of 2016, as well as his unsung hero roll call. Also, Colin Stephenson weighs in with his Top 5 matches of the 2016 season.
Who needs what?
What should be the offseason priority for your MLS club? Will Parchman's here to help.
Exchange student
New York City FC head coach Patrick Vieira is spending an educational week with sister club Manchester City.
Line item
Local blog Hot Time In Old Town have begun their autopsy of the Chicago Fire's season by weighing the 2017 status of netminder Sean Johnson.
First impression
Atlanta United have unveiled their debut MLS kit, and it's now also available to the fans.
Big plans
Arielle Castillo writes that LAFC's search for star player signings only represents the jumping off point for their ambitions.
MLSsoccer.com Musts:
Analyst Den: A common thread for USMNT's struggles
The Hex: Dos A Cero is dead and gone
Watch: Steven Gerrard's best MLS moments
