US News and Notes, Plus an MLS Update

Some stories to keep your day rolling on, along with a MLS weekend wrap-up:

Clint Dempsey not available for Costa Rica match:
NP has learned that Fulham midfielder Clint Dempsey has remained in London to treat a sprained shoulder and will not be available for Bob Bradley tomorrow against Costa Rica.  It's a good thing we managed to win in Honduras because this Costa Rica team, as we all know is very dangerous and Clint is one of the best play-makers the US has to offer.

US to play Denmark in Aarhus on November 18:
In a story confirmed by ussoccer.com, the United States Mens National Team will take on fellow World Cup Qualifiers Denmark in an international friendly on November 18 at NRGi Park in Aarhus.  With a lot of teams already scheduled for friendlies this was the best the US could expect, but then again, Denmark is no pushover, finishing the top of their UEFA qualifying group which includes Sweden.  Rumors of matches against Iran and the Netherlands are also springing up around the net.

UPDATE:  
According to fifa.com, the US will play the Netherlands on March 3, 2010, probably in the Netherlands.   

Jay DeMerit to be monitored:
US defender Jay DeMerit will be monitored for the next 10 days in anticipation for eye surgery, which in a freak accident, he cut while removing a contact lens.  Surgery probably means he will be unavailable for the friendly in November but should be back in time for the January training camp.

MLS Weekend Wrap-up:
The story this weekend in MLS was Chivas USA, who with their 2-0 win over Kansas City grabbed a playoff birth.  In other results Columbus beat New England 1-0 in Foxboro and Toronto FC missed a huge opportunity for three points at home when they allowed San Jose to equalize in stoppage time.  Here are the teams who have qualified for the MLS playoffs: Columbus Crew, LA Galaxy, Houston Dynamo, Chivas USA.

Look for a Costa Rica preview in a short while.  Until then, I bid thee a good day because tomorrow will only be better when the US finishes top of their group.  COME ON YOU YANKS!!!!!!!!!