Here is everything you need to know about MLS and North American soccer this morning:
Let's get it on: Playoffs start in Chicago
The Audi 2017 MLS Cup Playoffs kick off tonight when the New York Red Bulls invade Chicago for a single-elimination Knockout Round match (8:30 pm ET | FS1, UniMas in US; TSN3/5, TVAS in Canada). The Big Apple bunch are unbeaten on their last three visits to Toyota Park. PREVIEW
With observers everywhere wondering whether Bastian Schweinsteiger can beat a nagging thigh injury to face the Red Bulls, the Chicago star says it will be a gametime decision made by coach Veljko Paunovic. READ MORE
Underdog Quakes head to Vancouver
Also on Wednesday night, Vancouver will host San Jose in the West's first Knockout Round match (10:30 pm ET | UniMás (SAP for English), MLS LIVE in the US; TSN, TVAS2 in Canada). Though they were held to a BC Place draw by San Jose two weeks ago, the Whitecaps enter the contest unbeaten in their last seven home games. PREVIEW
After pulling a playoff berth out of the fire near the death on Decision Day, the Earthquakes are taking the attitude that "everything is possible" once you reach the postseason. READ MORE
This Knockout Round match as well as Thursday's other Western clash between Houston and Sporting Kansas City will be available in English for FREE on MLS LIVE for a US audience (blackouts apply). FIND OUT MORE
Playoff injury report: DeLaGarza, Parkhurst
The Houston Dynamo will be shorthanded on the back line during the playoffs, with veteran defender A.J. DeLaGarza ruled out by an ACL tear in his left knee. READ MORE
Elsewhere, Atlanta United are sweating the availability of center back Michael Parkhurst (below), who is nursing a knee problem. READ MORE
Power stations
Knockout round teams made both the biggest climb and the biggest drop in our final regular season MLSsoccer.com Power Rankings. The Red Bulls rose three rungs, while Sporting KC fell three. READ MORE
Noonan up for Revs coaching job
According to Sam Stejskal, former New England attack ace Pat Noonan has been interviewed for the Revs coaching job. He also reports that the club will also speak about the opening with Noonan's old teammate Steve Ralston, who is currently an assistant coach with San Jose. READ MORE
Oyongo bids Impact fans farewell
After announcing that he's set to make a free agent move to Europe, Ambroise Oyongo penned a heartfelt farewell letter to Montreal fans. READ MORE
Meanwhile, local journalist Arcadio Marcuzzi reports that the Impact are considering Argentinos Juniors manager Gabriel Heinze for their vacant head coach job. READ MORE
Sarachan takes interim US reins
Bruce Arena's longtime right-hand man, Dave Sarachan, has been announced as US national team caretaker boss for November's friendly visit to Portugal. READ MORE
Of course, US Soccer remains on the hunt for the next permanent manager. Take it with a large grain of salt, but Talksport claims that one of the leading candidates for the position is West Ham United boss Slaven Bilic. READ MORE
MLSsoccer.com Must-Watch:
