The Monday Morning Centerback

Every Monday morning, the MMC will offer his insight into moves made in and around the world of U.S. professional soccer:

Celtic waive midfielder Thomas Gravesen

Shalrie Josph has shown us in New England what a good center mid can do for a team. MLS should go after the 32-year-old Danish bulldog. Perhaps TFC's Mo Johnston can use his Old Firm ties. Or maybe whoever did the Benny Feilhaber and Jeremiah White deals can intercede on the league's behalf. It would be a huge acquisition for any team that's willing to take the plunge.

Galaxy make quick (and wrong) decision

Now don't get me wrong, I like Bruce Arena. He did a fabulous job with UVA, DC United and in his early career with the Nats. Unfortunately, since being let go by the USSF, his track record is shaky. With the Red Bulls, he discovered that MLS was a different league than it was in his days with United, when a trio of stars and a handful of role players could get things done. His stint in New York was disastrous. Now you're bringing him into a situation that's already a complete circus. Dealing with egos. Beckhammania. Unreal expectations. It seems like you're setting him up for failure. I would be willing to concede that he may have been the best available candidate now, but why not wait it out a while, see what Cobi can do. Or better yet, go after Houston assistant John Spencer before Colorado wises up and grabs him.

Cardiff City target EdJo

A Cup finalists Cardiff City are attempting to pry away American striker Eddie Johnson from Fulham. Hopefully this will happen. Eddie needs to get away from his American mates. He needs the spotlight to thrive and if he isn't the only oddity (an American striker, what?!?) on a team then he fades to the background. EdJo's a talented player, a headcase, but a talent nonetheless.

Hot German action

The days of Americans warming benches in the land of schnitzel and beer might be over, as Americans Neven Subotic (Dortmund), Matt Taylor (TuS Koblenz) and Grover Gibson (RW Ahlen) all scored in their debuts and helped their clubs to wins.