|
MLS announced its Best XI on Thursday, emblematic of the best players at each position on the field, with Supporters' Shield winners and MLS Cup finalist Toronto FC leading the way, placing three players. The team, selected by media, MLS players and technical staff saw Toronto FC forward Sebastian Giovinco, midfielder Victor Vazquez, and defender Justin Morrow selected. Sporting Kansas City placed two players through MLS Goalkeeper of the Year Tim Melia and MLS Defender of the Year Ike Opara, while Atlanta United also had two players selected to the side, with midfielder Miguel Almiron and forward Josef Martinez also named. The team is rounded out by Vancouver Whitecaps defender Kendall Waston, Portland Timers midfielder Diego Valeri, New York City FC forward David Villa, and Chicago Fire forward Nemanja Nikolic, who led MLS with 24 goals scored. Seven of the players named to the Best XI are first-time selections, with Waston and Villa making their second appearances, and Giovinco and Valeri each making their third appearances. Only three Americans were named to the team. 2017 MLS Best XI: Goalkeeper: Tim Melia (Sporting Kansas City) Defenders: Justin Morrow (Toronto FC), Ike Opara (Sporting Kansas City), Kendall Waston (Vancouver Whitecaps FC) Midfielders: Miguel Almiron (Atlanta United), Víctor Vazquez (Toronto FC), Diego Valeri (Portland Timbers) Forwards: Sebastian Giovinco (Toronto FC), Josef Martínez (Atlanta United), Nemanja Nikolic (Chicago Fire), David Villa (New York City FC)
|
