The New Breed Of MLS Bad Boys

• Goal.com, Wednesday, June 4, 2008 12:45 PM

Major League Soccer has seen an influx of talent from around the world over the past couple of years, with most of the media attention focused on the signing of established names. Less celebrated than the Designated Players, but no less important, is the "new breed of Bad Boys," argues Pat Walsh.
 
"Looking at the standings in MLS, there appears to be a need not only for the high-priced offensive talent, but also the tough and rugged players that allow their forwards to have the freedom to use that talent." A list of the teams boasting effective physical enforcers this season, such as New England, Houston, Toronto, and even LA, shows the league is now in an era where depth across the field is just as important as big name attacking stars.
 
"Not every team has the requisite Bad Boy," writes Walsh. "Those that don't will likely find themselves at the bottom of the standings looking up. For those teams, their next international signings may need to speak quietly and carry a big stick rather than earning top dollar in MLS."

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