The Chicago Fire reconstruction project has already brought the Fire new additions Julio Martinez and Krzysztof Krol (as well as head coach Carlos De Los Cobos), but now Chicago could be moving closer to adding a new striker.
Former Fulham striker Collins John is set to join the Chicago Fire on a trial during the club's training camp in Phoenix, sources told SBI on Friday. John was a teammate of Fire star Brian McBride at Fulham, but has seen his once-promising career hit the skids. He most recently played for Belgian club Roeselare, which released him in December.
John, 24, first made a name for himself after scoring 11 goals for Fulham during the 2005/2006 season, but never quite lived up to that high standard again, bouncing around five different clubs since.
Here are some other stories to get your Friday going:
PLYMOUTH COMPLETES COOPER SWOOP
U.S. national team striker Kenny Cooper's loan move to English side Plymouth Argyle has been completed, 1860 Munich announced on its website.
"I know both coaches at Plymouth, Paul Mariner and John Carver from my spell in the MLS," Cooper said. "I know I am getting my chance to recommend myself for the World Cup squad of my country. Hopefully I'll be able to score goals to help Plymouth win."
The loan deal came together after a falling out between Cooper and 1860 Munich manager Ewald Lienen over playing time. German reports cited an argument between Lienen and Cooper's father, Ken Sr., with ultimately leading to a move being made.
It remains unclear when Cooper will be eligible to play for Plymouth.
PHILADELPHIA UNION TO AIR MATCHES ON 6ABC
The Philly Union scored a major coup by sealing a deal to have its matches shown locally on network affiliate 6ABC, the club announced on Thursday. The Union had already added respected play-by-play announcer JP Dellacamera to its staff.
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EUROPEAN ROUNDUP
Juventus fires Ciro Ferrara
Eidur Gudjohnsen signs with Tottenham on loan
Anderson on verge of Lyon loan deal
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What do you think of these developments? Think John could revive his career in MLS? Glad to see Cooper heading to Plymouth? Think Rafa Benitez will wind up at Juventus?
Share your thoughts below.