By JOHN BOSCHINI
It's a time transition at the NASL.
The second-tier of American soccer revealed several changes this morning as David Downs was introduced as commissioner, a new logo was unveiled and a redesigned website was launched.
Downs is the former executive director of the unsuccessful USA World Cup bid and will officially take office on April 4th. Prior to his stint with USA Soccer, Downs was a veteran of the broadcast industry and spent time at ABC Sports and Univision. He is largely credited with bringing the World Cup to ABC.
The new NASL logo is a slight variation on the logo used in the 70’s and 80’s. The green backdrop is gone and the ball has been redesigned and enlarged. Both the logo and the new watermark were designed by Rich Levy.
Here are some more stories to keep your Monday going.
MOURINHO SAYS HE ALMOST TOOK ENGLAND JOB
Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho revealed that he came within hours of replacing Steve McClaren as manager of England in 2007, a job that eventually went to former Real Madrid manager Fabio Cappello.
“I was hours away, I almost signed up for the England national team,” Mourinho said in an interview with L’Equipe. “But at the last minute I began thinking, ‘I am going to coach a national side, there will be one match and the rest of the time I will be in my office or overseeing matches.'”
Mourinho eventually went on to manage Inter Milan before arriving at Real Madrid.
POLICE REJECT REPORTS OF RACISM BY SCOTTISH FANS
London police have denied reports of racism from Scottish fans during Scotland’s 2-0 loss to Brazil at the Emirates Stadium. A banana was reportedly thrown on to the field as Brazilian striker Neymar celebrated a goal but, according to police, it was thrown from the Brazilian end of the stadium. The Scottish Football Association said they have contacted the Brazilian FA to protest the accusations.
BOATENG OUT FOR SEASON
Manchester City will be most likely be without Jerome Boateng after the defender injured his knee while warming up for Germany’s Euro qualifier against Kazakhstan. The 22-year-old flew back to Manchester to receive treatment today.
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What do you think about today's stories? Is Downs a good appointment? Would you have liked to see Mourinho as England manager? How much does Boateng's injury hurt Manchester City's Champions League chances?