By Andrew Warshaw at the Leaders in Football conference at Stamford Bridge in London
October 12 – Major League Soccer (MLS) Commissioner Don Garber says he disapproves of loaning players to European clubs in the off-season as he tries to enhance the credibility of the game in the United States.
Top names such as former England captain David Beckham (pictured top, centre), Thierry Henry and Landon Donovan have all taken advantage of competing in Europe while contracted to MLS clubs.
“I hate it,” Garber said here.
“I’d like our players to be 100 per cent committed to Major League Soccer.
“In 10 years, our goal is to be one of the top soccer leagues in the world.”
Garber would love Beckham, when his LA Galaxy runs out in 2014, to join the MLS set-up.
“We would love to have a continued relationship with David in any capacity that he and his family would like” he commented.
“He has the opportunity to be part of an ownership group.
“My guess is he’s probably going to pursue that.”
Speaking to reporters after his address, Garber (pictured above) also flagged up the video system used in the MLS, unlike in Europe where any such technology – apart from goal-line – is frowned upon.
“There has been a reduction in injuries, there have been fewer red cards and we think that we’re able to influence player behaviour with this discipline process,” said Garber.
“I think it would be good for everybody to do it.
“If we view that a player had dived…with video review, we can fine that player.
“We think that’s reduced diving in Major League Soccer.”
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