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Media Microscope: ESPN and Fox preview their 2017 MLS TV coverage

The league's two U.S.-based English-language broadcast partners chat with Goal about what's new in 2017, growing ratings, and more.

This weekend, Fox and ESPN will begin another season as Major League Soccer's American-based English-language television partners.

IN 2016, TV ratings were up 25 percent on ESPN and 37 percent on Fox – though that number was slightly inflated by Fox showing matches on its broadcast network for the first time and ESPN using Euro 2016 games as a lead-in.

Still, the signs are positive for TV viewership, and both ESPN and Fox are bullish as the league opens up its 22nd season.