Lion Links: 10/16/17

Merry Monday morning, Mane Landers! Well, we’ve seen the last of our captain in purple in MLS matches. Yes, the Lions lost, but that doesn’t mean that things are all bad. After all, once you’ve hit bottom, there’s only one way to go! Let’s get to the links.

Orlando City Drops Home Finale

Kaká played his last game in MLS for the side that he ushered in. Orlando City’s captain stood with tears in his eyes while the national anthem of the United States played in Orlando City Stadium. It isn’t his national anthem, but it is of the club that he has represented the past three years, and the emotions were evident before he took the field. Unfortunately, Orlando City was unable to send Kaká off with a win, but we thank him nonetheless.

• Gavin Ewbank has your match recap.
• Michael Citro has your Player Grades and Man of the Match.
• The view from the other side comes from Massive Report.

Check in later today for your five takeaways from Sean Rollins and a photo gallery from the match by Gabrielle Feulner.

Sutter is a Bit Tired (and Rightfully So)

While you couldn’t tell on the pitch last night, Orlando City defender Scott Sutter is a little run down following this MLS season. Prior to playing with the Lions, Sutter finished his time with BSC Young Boys in Switzerland and then with only a few weeks rest joined Orlando, where he has gone on to play more minutes than any other player on the team. Needless to say, he is ready for a rest, but looks forward to suiting up in purple and making the most of his time in Orlando.

Your Excuses are Moot

You think you’re a diehard Orlando City fan? You think that you care about this team? Ok, you might, but don’t let a little thing like losing your legs get in the way of supporting the Lions. After all, Hector Manley has a prosthetic leg with the Orlando City logo emblazoned upon it to show his dedication. If you ever get bogged down in wins or losses, player contracts, or coaching dilemmas, then remember that Hector is there supporting our squad, and you can do the same.

NWSL likes Orlando City Stadium

In not so shocking news, the NWSL and its players have an appreciation for Orlando City Stadium, where the championship was recently played. NWSL Director Amanda Duffy went on to say that it is an amazing stadium and a great atmosphere for the championship game to be played. North Carolina Head Coach Paul Riley felt it offered a home-like atmosphere because the Orlando heavy crowd was pulling for his team to beat the Portland Thorns, who had knocked out their Orlando Pride. Regardless, the city showed why it is the soccer capital of the south.

Tab Ramos Wants the Job

Following the resignation of Bruce Arena, speculation on whom will be the next USMNT coach has been a hot topic. U.S. U-20 coach Tab Ramos is putting his hat in the ring, and who can blame him? Ramos has been integral with the development sides of the U.S. teams, was a noted USMNT player, and seems to have the respect of many. Will he get the job? Who knows, but he has been present for many of the last few administrations, and he does have the pedigree. If chosen, he would be the interim coach while U.S. Soccer sorts things out.

Tragedy in Indonesia

38-year-old goalkeeper Choirul Huda passed away following a mid-game collision playing for Persela Lamongan against Semen Pedang in the top level Liga 1 in Indonesia. Huda left his line to clear a ball and collided with a teammate and an opposing player. He was stretched off the field and later died from the collision. He played in over 500 matches for Persela, and will be sorely missed.

I know this is where I usually put in some free kicks and a video, but frankly I’m a bit tired, so I’ve decided against it. Have a great week everyone!

Oh heck. Here’s an ‘80s classic by Slade to get you going this morning.