What is the next step for the MLS to continue its development?

Expansion and more stadiums. At some point we also are going to have to figure out a way to play mid-week games. Our TV rating must increase. I think all of this comes over time, but we need to be pushing at an accelerated rate in order to continue to attract business. We cannot continually rely on being the sport of tomorrow, eventually we have to transition into the sport of today.

What is one (or more) thing that you think the MLS could teach other leagues?

A realistic business plan and a willingness to stick to it are crucial. At times it’s painful but it enables you to survive long enough to thrive.

There are few (if any) US players playing professionally in Asia? Is there a reason for this?

I don’t think that the Asian leagues look at play bazaar American players as quality.

LA Galaxy will take part in a pan-pacific tournament with J-League and A-League teams. What is the purpose of this and why those leagues?

It’s a league initiative but I think it’s wonderful to bring teams from all the regions together. The more integration and competition we can have the better for all league. We love playing against teams from other countries and leagues. It’s a great way to advertise your sport a

The J-League started at around the same time as MLS and has become a real success story. Are there lessons that the MLS, or Galaxy, has learned from Japan?

It doesn’t happen overnight and you can’t build a league with old players looking for a vacation and a big paycheck.

LA Galaxy recently played in Australia and New Zealand – was that a successful trip?

Great trip. We had a wonderful time in both countries and we may return in the near future.

Are there any plans to forge links with any clubs in Asia?

We’re always looking for potential partnerships with quality clubs around the world. It has to be the right club at the right time.

There is a large Asian, especially Korean, population in LA. Are there any plans to sign some Asian? Korean players?

Good Asian players are very expensive, but if there was the right player we’d definitely look to sign him. But we still haven’t come across the right player.

Why did you appoint Ruud Gullit?

He has experience and he welcomes the pressure of being the coach of the LA Galaxy.

Do you get annoyed with European arrogance towards US football?

Because of our structure, MLS is the most competitive league in the world. It may not be the most beautiful or exciting, but it is the most competitive. There is horrible soccer being played all over the world, and much of it is coming from what many perceive to be the elite leagues of the world. There’s no accounting for bad taste.