With the MLS season winding to a close, it's the time of year when media outlets begin releasing their best XIs, and this year is no exception. Goal USA's MLS Best XI was released on Wednesday, and a first-year Sounder made the list.
Goal.com editor Ives Galarcep named Tyrone Mears as the league's best right back after Mears joined Sounders FC in December to replace DeAndre Yedlin, the club's first Homegrown Player. In his first year with the Rave Green, Mears quickly became a constant fixture in the team's lineup, leading the club in minutes (2960) and games started (33).
Beyond his strong defensive abilities, Mears cemented himself as an important part of the offense. In early September, he was averaging 50 passes per match and was critical in building Seattle's attack from the back line. He also registered a game-winning goal on July 3 to defeat D.C. United at home at CenturyLink Field.
