The Chicago Fire are atop the MLS table through 19 matches in the 2017 season, a remarkable turnaround from a disappointing 2016 campaign.
They’ve put themselves in position to make a run at the MLS Cup later in the year.
The Fire’s success stems from a team effort but two players are being recognized by for their play in the fist half of the season. On Friday, MLS announced that both Nemanja Nikolic and Bastian Schweinsteiger were named to the 2017 MLS All-Star Fan XI Presented by Target.
The two will be part of the MLS team that takes on Real Madrid in the 2017 MLS All-Star Game on Wednesday, August 2 at Soldier Field.
Here’s what Fire general manager Nelson Rodriguez said about the player’s selection to the Starting IX:
“In a short period of time, Bastian and Nemanja have endeared themselves to Fire fans through their play and commitment to the club,” said Nelson Rodríguez via press release. “Their excellence has been justly rewarded with Fan XI honors and we look forward to the two representing our club and city at the All-Star Game next month.”
The 29-year-old Nikolic has been fantastic for the Fire all season long. He leads the race for the MLS Golden Boot, given out to the league’s top goal scorer, with 16 goals this season.
Nikolic has helped pace the Fire with his fantastic play up front. The striker most recently netted two goals in the Fire’s big win over Vancouver last Saturday.
Schweinsteiger has played in 15 matches since being signed on March 21 and has scored two goals and recorded five assists. He played in the 2014 MLS All-Star Game with Bayern Munich.
The full 24-man roster will be announced in Mid-July.
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