Sporting Kansas City Designated Player Omar Bravo was chosen as one of two picks by MLS Commissioner Don Garber for the 2011 AT&T MLS All-Star Game tonight at 7:30 p.m. CT on ESPN2 (English) and Galavision (Espanol). The MLS All-Stars, which also includes Sporting Kansas City defender Matt Besler, will take on Barclays Premier League champion Manchester United at Red Bull Arena in Harrison, New Jersey.
READ: Transcript of Tuesday's live chat with Besler on SportingMembership.com
See what Bravo -- who will be reunited with former Chivas Guadalajara teammate and current Red Devils striker Javier "Chicharito" Hernandez -- had to say ahead of the marquee match...
What is the atmosphere like around practice with so many stars? And how seriously do you all take this game? Is it a must-win to show that the MLS is a strong league?
The atmosphere is excellent and exciting, and the game will be taken with responsibility and professionalism. It is important to have fun and enjoy the experience.
There is always an obligation to win. You want to be competitive but it’s important not to obsess too much because after all it is an exhibition game.
Where does this rank (being an all-star) among your career achievements to be selected for a team with international superstars like Beckham and Henry?
For me it's an honor to share this experience with the likes of these great players and MLS figures. I don’t really compare it, but rather just think of it as another accomplishment to put on my list in my career.
Is this a chance for you to show you are among the world's elite forwards?
I just want to enjoy it. I don’t pretend to prove anything at 31. Just convince myself on my game and my competitiveness.
What are your thoughts on facing Manchester United, which is arguably the most recognizable sports franchise in the world?
It is an honor to face Manchester United, considering their popularity and prestige. It will surely be a great experience.
What would it mean for you to get a goal in this game?
A goal for me would be to thank Sporting Kansas City for everything they’ve given me and the Commissioner for making me his pick. It would give me joy.
Sporting KC is 6-6-8, should people start considering this team as a threat to win the MLS championship?
Of course we need to dream that we can be champions and that should bring positive things. We have a great coach and we need to take it one step at a time.
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MORE LINKS:
- Tiro Libre: Podcast de FutbolMLS.com
- ElSportingKC.com: Bravo espera gran reunión con Chicharito
- ElSportingKC.com: Bravo quiere divertirse en el partido
