Sepp Says The Darndest Things

It's hard to envision a time when FIFA president Sepp Blatter would talk and the football world actually gave a damn. The usual response being a quick shake of the head--similar to what you would give to a naive old-timer that is out of touch with modern society.

Whether it be his rant on adding sex appeal to women's football through skimpier outfits, or a good old handshake being the remedy for discriminatory behaviour on the field. When Mr. Blatter chooses to comment on matters pertaining to the beautiful game, it's safe to say, his judgement is not ideal.

Corruption in FIFA? That's an absurd notion. Future World Cup hosts Russia and Qatar are both shining examples of a squeaky clean image. Discrimination and Human rights violations are apparently of minimal importance. Not to mention his initial stance to goal-line technology.

But, that's another issue all together.Uncle Sepp was at it again over the weekend--having a dig at Major League Soccer.

 "There is no very strong professional league (in the U.S.)," Blatter said. "They have just the MLS but they have no professional leagues which are recognized by the American society."

Ouch!

And here I thought that a consistent rise in attendance proved otherwise--increasing from approximately 15,500 in 2006 to almost 19,000 last season. Add into account an additional seven new franchises in the same time period, including expansion into Canada.

The final statistic that disproves Blatter's ridiculous claim--13 franchises from a possible 19 have erected soccer specific stadiums. More proof of continuous growth and development of the sport in North America.

Adopting a league schedule that mirrors Europe is the only argument of Blatter's that has some merit. Although, it's a concept that is difficult to implement by MLS commissioner Don Garber--considering some of the venues have to put into consideration the demands of the NFL and MLB schedules.

"They have to play and adapt themselves to the international calendar," Blatter has previously stated. "If they do that, they can have success.

Judging by the numbers, and the exposure gained through David Beckham's arrival onto the scene, which has been followed by a good number of European football's biggest names--the MLS is laying down a solid foundation into the American professional sport's market.

Proving once again that Blatter suffers from a strong case of foot-in-mouth disease.