The US may not be in action, but a host of International matches begin today as qualification for Euro 2012 gets under way. Among the 22 fixtures scheduled for Friday, France faces an issue of leadership as they prepare to host Belarus (3 PM ET) following their nightmarish World Cup, and Ireland steps back on the field to play Armenia (11 AM ET) after missing out on South Africa. Spain, the defending European champions, is after its third major title in four years when they take on Liechtenstein (2:45 PM ET).
CONCACAF action returns – albeit in a friendly manner – as El Salvador and Honduras meet in the Estadio Cuscatlan (5 PM ET).
Differing reports have ex-Liverpool coach Gerard Houllier interviewing for the Aston Villa opening and confirmed as the next manager at Villa.
While FIFA officials get ready to head stateside Monday for their whirlwind three-day tour of the United States (New York/New Jersey (New Meadowlands Stadium), Washington (FedEx Field), Miami (Sun Life Stadium), Houston (Reliant Stadium) and Dallas (Cowboys Stadium)), it comes amid reports that they could potentially withdraw from the 2018 bid. Michel Platini, speaking to the Daily Express, revealed he is nearly positive the US will remove their bid to host in eight years to focus on the 2022 bid.
“I’m 90 percent confident USA will withdraw, ensuring a European host for 2018, which is my objective.
Following a visit to Spain and Portugal, however, FIFA and delegation leader Harold Mayne-Nicholls praised the Iberian joint bid to host in either 2018 or 2022.
“The Iberian bid has a good chance of being selected “Our report is going to be very positive because we have observed that they have a great sport, hotel and transport infrastructure, as well as a strong support from their political and sports authorities.”
Apparently, the Chicago Fire are planning to make a major announcement at 1PM ET today, which can be seen here.
And MLS may have another Englishman coming. He’s just a rugby player.