Here are the 15 stories we're talking about this morning:
1. NAGBE ENERGIZES TIMBERS
The Portland Timbers have rediscovered their form just in time for the Audi 2015 MLS Cup Playoffs and their Conference Semifinal series with Vancouver, thanks in part to Darlington Nagbe's changed role within the club’s formation.
2. PARKER CLIMBS THE LADDER
Vancouver Whitecaps defender Tim Parker has come a long way this season, going from the USL to the MLS Cup Playoffs. Now all the Caps need is some goals, and they're doing whatever they can to spark forward Octavio Rivero.
3. D.C. UNITED IN THE NEWS
As D.C. United prepare for their Atlantic Cup playoff series finale with the New York Red Bulls, head coach Ben Olsen reacted to the news that Red Bulls defender Ronald Zubar is not suspended. Meanwhile, United are also taking note of reports linking one of their young stars with a move to Italy.
4. GREAT SCOTT
With all the injury problems for the Seattle Sounders ahead of Sunday's second leg vs. FC Dallas, defender Zach Scott plays a crucial role. Despite the veteran's own injury issues, he's still going strong. On the other side, young FCD goalkeeper Jesse Gonzalez has Mexican fans interested in the playoffs.
5. GERRARD RUMORS DISMISSED
Looks like there’s no truth to the rumors of LA Galaxy star Steven Gerrard returning to Anfield this winter, with both Galaxy coach Bruce Arena and Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp shooting down the reports.
6. DYNAMO QUASH TORRES TRADE TALK
The Houston Dynamo have denied reports that they are shopping forward Erick "Cubo" Torres. However, a Houston Chronicle report on Thursday claims the club could part ways with longtime star Brad Davis.
7. TFC PLAN FOR THE FUTURE
Toronto FC aren’t happy about the way their season ended. Rather than let it get them too down, the Reds plan to use their disappointing end to 2015 to help guide some offseason changes.
8. VIERA STILL IN LINE FOR NYCFC JOB?
New York City FC have shot down rumors of Andrea Pirlo going on loan this winter, but reports are once again circulating about Patrick Viera's potentially taking the vacant head coaching job.
9. SAN ANTONIO EXPANSION NEWS
The city of San Antonio has reached a deal to acquire the San Antonio Scorpions’ home stadium, Toyota Field, with the stated goal of bringing an MLS team to the city.
10. LAFC STADIUM PLAN PASSES FIRST HURDLE
LAFC’s new stadium has moved another step closer to reality after the revised plans passed the first approval process. The proposed venue will now go before the LA Planning Committee in December.
11. CHANGES TO US OPEN CUP ELGIBILITY?
It looks like U.S. Soccer might be changing the club eligibility rules for the US Open Cup, and it could have a major impact on MLS-owned USL clubs.
12. WILLIAMS READY TO HELP USMNT
The US national team is struggling heading into next week's World Cup Qualifier against St Vincent & the Grenadines, but Reading's Danny Williams is ready to play a part. "We have to make things right for the World Cup qualifiers," he says.
13. CHANGES AT THE YOUTH LEVEL?
Following a poor performance at the Under-17 World Cup in Chile, head coach Richie Williams position is reportedly "at risk," though a decision won't be made until 2016. Canada, meanwhile, are taking the next group of U-20 players to Mexico for a 10-day camp and two friendlies against their CONCACAF rivals.
14. BRADLEY TO FRANCE?
Just days after Bob Bradley's Stabaek side secured an unlikely Europa League spot, a Norwegian report claims he could be on his way to French club Le Havre.
15. RONALDINHO RUMORS (AGAIN)
It’s the rumor that refuses to die: Ronaldinho to MLS. Enjoy!
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