The Vancouver Whitecaps, who will join MLS in 2011, have hired Tottenham executive director Paul Barber as the team's new chief executive officer. "Just a little bit of news -- I call him our designated executive," said Whitecaps' co-owner Jeff Mallett. "Much like David Beckham is a designated player, it's the same impact we're going to see on the business side of the equation." Mallett and Barber first met three years ago when Mallett and NBA star Steve Nash, a Caps co-owner, inquired about purchasing an interest in Tottenham. Barber has overseen Spurs' business and operational divisions since taking over the job in 2005. "My e-mail box is full with executives at other European clubs saying, 'I can't believe this is happening,'" added Mallett. "It marks a fundamental shift in the landscape of North American soccer. It's a big coup."

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