Philadelphia Union and MLS News and Notes 1-12-16

Jack McInerney agrees deal with Portland Timbers - sources | ESPN FC:
The reigning MLS Cup champions Portland Timbers are set to acquire out-of-contract forward Jack McInerney from the Columbus Crew SC, sources say.

Report: Landon Donovan Part of San Diego USL Team Push | Empire of Soccer:
This is really turning into *Insert name here* is pushing for a USL team. Regardless, it would be cool to see Landon Donovan involved as an owner.

FC Dallas announces USL affiliation with Oklahoma City Energy FC | Big D Soccer:
From our friends at Big D Soccer: FC Dallas is the latest team to announce an affiliation with a USL club. This does raise the question, "Is the USL on track to become the development league to the MLS?" though.

Counterpoint: Pro/Rel Can Work With MLS, But Not The Way You Think | Burgundy Wave:
A cool article on the ever developing promotion / relegation argument courtesy of The Burgandy Wave. There is definitely a way for MLS to make room for promotion and relegation to the highest tiers of soccer in America. But it might not be all you had hoped for. At least, not at first.

January has changed for MLS | US Soccer Players:
What was once a regular part of the MLS experience is now a rarity, elite players going on loan to European clubs in January. This creates a more cohesive league as a whole where players are focused on their MLS side rather than being split between two teams.

German Clubs Bayer Leverkusen, Schalke Dominate on Opening Night of 2016 Florida Cup | The Mane Land:
The 2016 Florida Cup is underway! Bayer Leverkusen opened up the 2016 Florida Cup with a late victory over Colombian club Santa Fe.  Schalke 04 followed up with a 2-0 victory over the Fort Lauderdale Strikers of NASL.