Tommy Thompson is only 24, but the San Jose Earthquakes player is now a seventh-year pro. He’s not quite grizzled yet, however, and during a conference call with reporters Thursday, displayed his trademark enthusiasm when discussing the return of MLS.
Thompson, who started the first two games of the Earthquakes’ season, the only games to be played prior to the league shutdown because of coronavirus, thinks the format of the upcoming MLS is Back Tournament in Orlando will hold appeal to a wider audience.
“I think it’s a unique opportunity for MLS to take center stage here,” he said “And I know Americans are the type to be excited about the World Cup, and I think the World Cup-style format is something that is going to engage a new audience on top of that already with Major League Soccer.