FOUR & MORE: Best Inland Area MLS’ers
MAJOR LEAGUE SOCCER 2012
1. Landon Donovan, L.A. Galaxy — The Redlands East Valley HS product is still at the top of his game as captain of the 2011 Major League Soccer champions. The 30-year-old looks primed for a big year internationally as the USMNT participates in World Cup qualifying.
2. Nick Rimando, Real Salt Lake — The Montclair HS graduate won an MLS Cup two seasons ago, and is very much a fan favorite at Rio Tinto Stadium. The 32-year-old was recently invited into the USMNT camp with the opportunity to make the team as a reserve goalkeeper.
3. Chad Marshall, Columbus Crew — The Rubidoux HS alum is the bruising blonde in the back, and a two-time MLS Defender of the Year. The 27-year-old has been a striking absence, however, from the USMNT camp in recent years; even more so considering the U.S.’s lack of depth at center back.
4. Sammy Ochoa, Seattle Sounders — The one-time varsity player at Riverside Poly was acquired last season by the Sounders after playing seven seasons for Estudiantes Tecos in the Mexican League, where the 25-year-old scored two goals in 27 career appearances.
AND MORE: Chukwudi Chijindi, Wilmington Hammerheads — While not currently playing for an MLS side, the La Verne Damien graduate played for Chivas USA as recently as last season. The 26-year-old was not selected in the 2011 MLS Re-Entry Draft and became a free agent, signing with USL Pro’s Wilmington franchise.
