Photo by ISIphotos.com
U.S. men's national team legend and Chicago Fire captain Brian McBride has enjoyed one of the most successful careers in American soccer history and that career will close its final chapter at the end of this MLS season.
McBride will announce his retirement today, effective at the end of the season, sources have told SBI. The 38-year-old striker began his professional career 16 years ago in Germany before signing with Major League Soccer and becoming the first draft pick in the league's history.
McBride enjoyed nine memorable seasons with the Columbus Crew, and two successful loan stints in England (with Preston North End and Everton) before signing with Fulham. He became a folk hero at Craven Cottage during his four-year stint, serving as the club's leading scorer and captain before returning to MLS in 2008 with the Chicago Fire.
To many American fans, it will be McBride's contributions to the U.S. national team that stand out the most, with his three World Cups, 96 appearances and 30 international goals before his retirement in 2006.
Here are a pair of tribute videos that do a great job of summing up his contributions through the years:
What do you think of the news of McBride retiring? Where does he rank among your favorite American players all time?
Share your thoughts below.