March 11, 2009 1:17 PM

Ljungberg available off the bench for opener

That's what coach Sigi Schmid said after Wednesday's practice on what was another big news day for Sounders FC. Ljungberg won't start, Schmid said, but will be available. It seems his recovery from hip and hamstring problems has given the team enough confidence to green light him for game action.

Ljungberg has yet to participate in a full practice, however.

More from today: The MLS Cup is coming to town, as you probably all know by now, and here's a quote from commissioner Don Garber that is sure to intrigue those of you who are members of supporters groups.

"We hope to see supporters clubs from all around the League join us in the Emerald City in November, regardless of which two teams advance to the final."

Schmid also commented on the Cup coming to town. Here's what he had to say:

"We'd love to be in it. MLS Cup coming here is really a tribute to the interest the city has shown and what the fans have done by getting behind this team and supporting it. It's almost like a thank-you to the fans to be able to witness and watch a showcase game. And our objective, even though we're an expansion team, is to find our way into that game if at all possible."

More notes from today:

-Sounders FC forward Fredy Montero has left the team to travel to South America, where he is sorting out personal contract issues with his agents. Montero will not play in Thursday's exhibition finale but is expected to return to Seattle Friday.

-Schmid said there is a chance another player (besides F Jarrod Smith) could be placed on injured reserve and have to miss the required six games. D Taylor Graham has a protective boot over his right foot and appears to be the most likely IR candidate.

-Schmid was in a jolly mood at the end of practice. He played soccer tennis with Kevin Forrest against Stephen King and Evan Brown and won. "I think it was 11-6," he said.
Schmid also took a couple of free kicks. "I can't hit the ball anymore," he wisecracked. "When you're over 50 you lose pop on the ball. Something happens, you can't hit it the same way. Soccer tennis is a good way for old guys to be able to still play."

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