Here’s some stories you may have missed last week:
– MLS team owners want more money in the salary cap. They have proposed two options. First, a straight out $2.5 million dollar cap. Secondly, a $2.3 million cap, with extra money allowed for transfers. [Debate highlights MLS salary cap split among teams] A surprising fact is that the league pays player wages, except for their marquee singing (e.g. David Beckham). The owners are conflicted on what they want; some want a small steady growth of about 4 per cent and others want a substantial increase. The Australian A-League operates under a a similar structure, however, the increases in the salary cap have been closer to 10 per cent.
– Staying with soccer, it is rumored that Dwight Yorke might be making a return to Australia. The former Sydney FC player, who currently plays for Sunderland in the EPL has stated that the Central Coast Mariners would have the first option when his current contract expires. [Yorke going Down Under] Yorke recently settled his dispute over wages with Sydney FC, and loved Australia when he was there. However, despite Yorke commanding a substantial wage, he will not be their marquee player. Instead, his wages will be split between player and coach.
– George Peat, president of the Scottish Football Association (SFA) has conceded that the best Scottish managers will always be drawn to England as the clubs have the resources to offer the big bucks. [Peat accepts riches in England will always prove magnet for managers] This was highlighted last week by Alex McLeish leaving the Scottish job and taking over Premiership club Birmingham.
– Moving to cricket now. Cricket Australia (CA) CEO James Sutherland has played down a rift with players over their decision to play in the Indian Premier League (IPL) without consultation. [Australians play down reports of rift] CA is unhappy they are not involved in the organization process, and there is a possibility that there might be a breach of their current contracts. It is estimated that players will make close to $1 million each for the month long series.
– Finally, Red Sox player and and former rookie of the year Dustin Pedroia has signed an endorsement deal with Sullivan Tire & Auto Service. [Sullivan Tire signs Red Sox player Pedroia] Pedroia’s family operates in the industry.
– Chris Lesley