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Latino players influenced Sounders success since MLS Day 1

They’re bringing more than stereotypical technical play to the team. They are part of its heart and soul.

The Sounders have always had a strong core, and a lot of their strength comes from the tight knit Latino players who have molded this team through the years.

In 2009 this MLS team was built with the Defensive Player of the Year candidate Jhon Kennedy Hurtado from Columbia and Costa Rican veteran Leo Gonzalez in the back. The central channel was the domain of unknown Cuban Osvaldo Alonso, promoted from the USL. Attacking duties were led by a young Columbian named Fredy Montero, brash and exciting with flair and a scoring touch that hinted at greatness to come.