Lion Links: 10/23/15

After a grueling six-day wait, it’s finally here: Friday. Nothing makes the world seem like a better place than the end of the work week and the beginning of the glorious weekend. The only thing that makes this weekend better is that Orlando will beat Philly by seven goals–all scored by Lewis Neal–and NYCFC will make Orlando fans happy for the first (and only) time by beating New England by at least two goals. Until then, let’s enjoy some fabulous Lion Links.

Kaká on Planet Futbol Podcast

Orlando City captain Kaká joined up with Sports Illustrated’s Planet Futbol podcast to talk a little more on his first season in MLS. While the skipper has not had an MVP year, his contributions have helped the team immensely. I highly recommend giving this a listen.

Tally Hall Undergoes Surgery

After a freak injury last week on the dreaded Citrus Bowl turf, Tally Hall underwent surgery to repair his right meniscus yesterday and is already on the road to recovery. After missing much of the first half of the season with a torn ACL, fans were scared when Hall went down, but should be delighted to know the incredible doctors at Orlando Health are taking care of "Tally Wall." We only hope he comes back stronger next year and helps Orlando make a stronger push toward the playoffs.

Two Lions in Top 10 of MLS Jersey Sales

Which two Lions made the top 20 list for jersey sales this season? If you were thinking Estrela and Harrison Heath, you were wrong. Captain Kaká and USMNT/pregnancy announcement star Brek Shea were ranked third and ninth, respectively. The only players above our beloved captain were Clint Dempsey and Steven Gerrard. NYCFC had four players in the top 10 and MVP front-runner Sebastian Giovinco was ranked 12th. Next year, plan on buying a million jerseys so Orlando can feature at least 11 players in the top 20. Seriously folks, do it.

Sporting KC Announces USL Affiliate Team

Shortly after Orlando announced "Orlando City B," Sporting KC has announced its own USL team, albeit with a much cooler name. Starting next season, the team will be known as the Swope Park Rangers. The name comes from the name of the reserve squad and is the first MLS/USL team that does not feature the parent team's name in any way. In fact, the only way we know they are affiliated is the strikingly similar logo–of which I am quite fond!

That's all for today folks, enjoy your Friday!