By TRAVIS CLARK
The offseason may have begun for Landon Donovan in November, but that doesn’t mean the Los Angeles Galaxy attacker gets a break. After last week’s friendly in Australia, Donovan is a part of the USA World Cup Bid presentation scheduled for today.
Rumors of another January loan move for Donovan also persist, with a return to Everton listed as a possibility. However, Donovan insists he isn’t sure what he’ll do, indicating that he’s going to take his time to make a decision.
Donovan has played soccer for almost two years non-stop, and an actual break during the MLS offseason is another option.
Here are a few other stories for Wednesday:
PUTIN OPTS OUT OF RUSSIA BID
In a move that is seen to strengthen England’s hopes of hosting the World Cup in 2018, Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin confirmed that he will not be in Zurich during Russia’s bid presentation that will take place on Thursday. Igor Shuvalov, the deputy prime minister, will submit his country’s bid as previously indicated.
FABREGAS TO TAKE HIS TIME
Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas, who is out with a hamstring injury, said that he will take his time returning to the field for the Gunners. Arsene Wenger addressed the issue after Arsenal’s 2-0 win over Wigan Athletic on Tuesday, explaining that there is no specific timetable, and that the Spaniard won’t be rushed back from his hamstring problem — an issue that has hampered him this season.
ITALY REMAINS CONFIDENT OF AVOIDING STRIKE
Just a day after the Italian Players’ Association indicated that a strike will be set for the weekend of December 11-12, the Italian FA remains confident that a work stoppage could be avoided. The Players’ Association is upset over new practice and transer rules in Serie A and below. Hearings are scheduled today by the Italian Olympic Committee high court in an attempt to resolve the situation.
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Think Donovan will move overseas on another loan move? Will Putin’s absence hurt Russia and help England? When will Fabregas return?
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