Freddie Ljungberg, former Swedish international and two-time MLS All-Star, has been traded to the Chicago Fire in exchange for a conditional selection in the 2011 or 2012 SuperDraft. This story has been unfolding for weeks, with many originally thinking Ljungberg was headed to New York Red Bulls. Instead, he's off to the Windy City, and although Sounders fans wish him well, we won't be looking regretfully over our shoulders.
↵The midfielder has missed five consecutive competitive matches for Seattle, in which the Sounders were unbeaten. Although superstitious supporters might theorize that Ljungberg was bad luck for the squad, in reality his leaving created a different playing formation, one that allowed Fredy Montero much more space on the pitch. With this space, Montero has been able to showcase his gifts, most recently with the stunning goal against Metapan that occurred just seconds after he stepped on the field. The Sounders have also had the opportunity to use Miguel Montano, another talented Colombian, fast and intelligent on the ball.
↵With the official acquisition of Alvaro Fernandez yesterday, the Seattle Sounders are making a firm statement: This club will be about moving forward rather than looking back. The team will not be chasing the old men at the end of their game. Rather than seeking flash, the club will look to make smart decisions, such as signing designated players who are able to grow in skill while with the Sounders. Fernandez will now take the second DP slot, leaving fans to wonder: will we keep our star, Fredy Montero, by flashing a bit of cash and using him as our third DP? One can hope.