As the Sounders prepare for their 10th consecutive appearance in the postseason, they enter the competition with arguably the deepest roster since the club’s MLS era began in 2009.
While a consistent lineup and return to health of key players have been integral to the Sounders compiling the best half-season in league history, the team’s early struggles – and the resulting experience thrust upon youngsters on the roster – could be a boon entering the playoffs.
“Obviously our goal as a developmental program in the Academy and S2 is to prepare players for the First Team,” said Sounders FC Director of Player Development and Academy Director Marc Nicholls.