MLS All-stars to take on West Ham

AFP - 4 April 2008 01:43

Major League Soccer Commissioner Don Garber is seen in January 2008. The Major League Soccer All-Stars will take on English Premiership club West Ham United in this season´s All-Star Game, the US football league announced on Thursday.

NEW YORK (AFP) - The Major League Soccer All-Stars will take on English Premiership club West Ham United in this season's All-Star Game, the US football league announced on Thursday.

The match will take place on July 24 at Toronto FC's BMO Field.

MLS commissioner Don Garber said Toronto's passionate fan base was the main reason for hosting this year's midseason showcase in Canada.

"Toronto's support of Major League Soccer has been nothing short of extraordinary, and we're thrilled to bring our All-Star Game to a sold-out BMO Field," Garber said. "The TFC supporters and other fans from around the league will provide a vibrant and enthusiastic setting for the game."

It will mark the fifth time that the MLS pits its All-Stars against an international club, continuing the league's "MLS Takes on the World" campaign.

The MLS is 4-0 all-time in previous All-Star Games against international opponents.

In past years, the All-Star Game has featured Chelsea FC and Fulham FC of the English Premier League, Celtic FC of the Scottish Premier League and Mexican side CD Guadalajara.