Expert Blogs

Donovan apart, few of his MLS-based co-workers are likely to see significant playing time. Bradley is gambling Buddle can reproduce his club form and link play with Donovan in the pressure cooker atmosphere of a World Cup.

In Buddle's final appearance for the Galaxy before heading off to US training camp, he was handled effectively by a Toronto FC defence that has yet to prove itself over a sustained period. If he couldn't find a way past TFC, he cannot be considered a major goal threat on the international stage.

At least Bradley is taking a man in form. Buddle leads the MLS scoring charts and the Galaxy is flying high. The same cannot be said of Findley. A single goal in 2010 tells its own story but Bradley knows he's quick. Findley's pace off the bench might just test some tired defenders in the latter stages when the U.S. needs a spark.

Bornstein's active participation may depend on the respective health of his fellow defenders. Oguchi Onyewu and Carlos Bocanegra are both on the way back from surgery and while the prognosis is optimistic, the Chivas full back enjoys the confidence of Bradley who brought him into MLS in 2006.

Based on the above, Major League Soccer's influence at the World Cup will be peripheral at best.

Or perhaps not. The fact of the matter is no less than 17 of Bradley's selection kicked off their pro careers with MLS. Donovan is still here, though probably not for long. His successful loan spell at Everton will surely attract a string of would be suitors after the tournament on the assumption he performs as expected.

Many have already made the leap. One could argue the U.S. is at its strongest in the goalkeeping department. All three of Bradley's 'keepers cut their teeth in North America. Tim Howard served the Metrostars for several years before finding his way to the English Premier League.

Marcus Hahnemann spent the best part of three seasons with Colorado before fulfilling his potential in the EPL, first with Reading and currently with Wolves. Brad Guzan, the baby of the bunch at 25, is learning his trade at Aston Villa after 3 impressive years at Chivas USA.

The list is extensive. Clint Dempsey, Jozy Altidore, Stuart Holden and Mike Bradley are likely starters who all trace their roots back to MLS. Only 6 of the 23 names have never played in the League and the coach himself led Chicago to MLS Cup glory in the Fire's expansion year.

Major League Soccer cannot compete financially with most of its European counterparts. Nor does it have any desire to keep up with the Jones's. Those with the talent will continue to be exported to the highest bidder but MLS can hold its head up high in the knowledge it has made a contribution to the drama that lies ahead.