The most famous figure in the existence of DC United, Marco Etcheverry, is ready to move on. While this is sad for DC United fans, it is really coming about two years later than I expected. Marco will always be loved by DC United fans, but this is probably best for both sides as the team has clearly been going for younger talent the past couple of years.

http://www.dcunited.com/index.cfm?section=...&cont_id=224044

I think that this is a great break for Bobby Convey. He is a great midfielder, but with DC's playmaking controlled by Etcheverry, he was stuck on the flanks. Convey will now most likely move inside and prosper. Maybe he will catch Tottenham's eye again?

This could be interesting though. DC has been led by Ethcheverry's fiery personality, and, along with Jaime Moreno, drove them to 3 MLS Cups. With Moreno being traded to the Metros last year, and now Etcheverry's retirement, it seems like DC is missing that driving force. Maybe we will see ex-Metro Mike Petke or captain Ryan Nelson or even Dema Kovalenko step up.

Agreed on both counts. Convey definitely has it in him to be the playmaker. OTOH, who on United has it in him to be the one to will the team to victory like Etch did in MLS Cup '96?