Nyarko to the Fire; Saturday's US Soccer

With all the speculation, analysis and predictions that occur before any Draft in American sports, it is always nice to get to see the experts surprised. And surprised is certainly a good word to describe today's MLS Superdraft. For complete coverage of all the twists and turns check out this ESPN piece by Ives Galarcep.

The Chicago Fire had to be ecstatic to come away with Patrick Nyarko, who was widely considered one of the most talented forwards available. The Fire can certainly be happy to get Nyarko with their 7th pick--most assumed he would be one of the first to be selected. The former Virginia Tech striker will now have the chance to learn from the likes of Cuauhtémoc Blanco, Diego Gutierrez and Justin Mapp.

In US soccer news, Fulham (ok I know this isn't US soccer, but they are basically America's Premier League team) FC takes on red hot Arsenal Saturday morning. The game will broadcast at 10 am on FSC. Lets see if the news that Arsenal will be without Robin Van Persie for several months can inspire Fulham to get a much needed win.

Also, Bob Bradley and the US National Team take on Sweden at the Home Depot Center tomorrow evening. Look for youngsters Jozy Altidore and Maurice Edu to get some serious playing time. Kickoff is at 7 pm--be sure to flock to your local football-friendly watering hole to catch this one, it won't be broadcast on any ESPN affiliate.