Lion Links: 7/17/15

Holy Newsday Batman!

Happy Friday, and welcome to this edition of Lion Links, your one-stop shop for news from the world of soccer and Orlando City in particular. The news came fast and furious on Thursday evening.

Bad news for Harrison Heath and Brek Shea

It seems the friendly with the Baggies has taken a toll on an already banged up squad. Harrison Heath will be out six to eight weeks from the knee injury he sustained. We've also found out more about Brek Shea's hernia situation.

Happy Birthday Danny!

On a brighter note, Orlando City’s very own Danny Mwanga is celebrating his 24th birthday today. If you aren’t already following him on Twitter, what better time than his birthday to do so, and wish him a happy one! Danny’s twitter is @dmwanga10.

Interview with Kaká

Interesting interview with Ricardo via MLS, touching on his thoughts about how soccer is perceived here in the States. The gist being that we have a better sports/life balance when it comes to winning. I guess he hasn't been exposed to SEC football yet. He also shares his thoughts on parity in MLS versus other countries.

From Swansea City to Orlando City?

Seems that Swansea City midfielder Leon Britton may be entertaining a move to the MLS, and Orlando City is right back in the thick of the rumors as a potential destination. Leon states he still feels he can play at a high level, and would consider staying a Swansea City, another EPL team, or a move to the MLS. Leon…Leo…Lion…Orlando City! Break out the tinfoil hats, lads!

Player's Union and MLS ratify new CBA

Breaking news…there's a new CBA. The Mane Land will have more analysis on this new agreement in the coming days. For now, you can read the actual agreement.

Why Jozy is off the Gold Cup Roster

After a pedestrian performance in the group stage of the Gold Cup, Jozy is headed back to Toronto. It’s not the first time that Jürgen Klinsmann has demoted Altidore from a cup roster (see a pair of World Cup qualifiers in 2012). This time, however, the reason is his fitness level, as he continues to work his way back from a recent hamstring injury. Everyone knew about it going into the Gold Cup, and Jürgs was probably hoping that Jozy was further along, but it was not meant to be.

USWNT takes the ESPY

I'd say it was one FINAL win for the United States Women's National Team on Thursday night, but I wouldn't bet against them getting another one this year somehow. This time it was the ESPY for "Best Team." They beat out the likes of the Chicago Blackhawks, the New England Patriots, the L.A. Clippers, and the Ohio State Buckeyes (which may have made someone here at The Mane Land a little upset).

I don't know about y'all, but I'm worn out after this Friday's Lion Links. GO CITY!