Which star will have the greatest impact on Friday?
Market Research
Since Thierry Henry and Rafa Márquez joined the MLS ranks in July, the league’s most anticipated match, by default, became New York vs. Los Angeles.
Los Angeles’ midfield maestro David Beckham recuperated in time to return the match to full power, but a knee injury has forced New York’s star striker Henry to pull out of the game.
Nevertheless, the match remains just as intriguing.
Landon Donovan is coming off a great performance, single-handedly turning around the score against D.C. United to give LA a 2-1 victory last week. He’s in the running for MLS MVP again, an honor he’s determined to win.
Beckham has slowly gotten more playing time since returning to action two weeks ago. A start against New York is a slight possibility after two substitute appearances, and a great performance would put a golden bow on his return.
New York’s Márquez has appeared a bit tired in the last couple of games, but he says he feels fitter and his ankle feels a lot better. Furthermore, he’s ready to atone for the mistake that led to LA’s 1-0 win in their last meeting.
READ: Márquez fit, ready for LA
Finally, Juan Pablo Ángel was left off of the starting lineup last week. The Colombian striker will look to put aside his recent struggles to impress and win back a spot in the first XI that he deems rightfully his.
Each Designated Player has something to prove. Who do you think will impact the match the most? Vote now and let us know.
