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MLS: 5 things you may have missed from Decision Day

By Chris Smith

Manchester United's goalkeeper Tim Howard celebrates victory (Photo by John Walton/EMPICS via Getty Images)
Manchester United's goalkeeper Tim Howard celebrates victory (Photo by John Walton/EMPICS via Getty Images) /
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ATLANTA, GA – DECEMBER 08: Owner Arthur Blank hugs Michael Parkhurst #3 as he hands over the MLS Cup after their 2-0 win over the Portland Timbers during the 2018 MLS Cup between Atlanta United and the Portland Timbers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on December 8, 2018 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GA – DECEMBER 08: Owner Arthur Blank hugs Michael Parkhurst #3 as he hands over the MLS Cup after their 2-0 win over the Portland Timbers during the 2018 MLS Cup between Atlanta United and the Portland Timbers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on December 8, 2018 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /

3. Parkhurst gets regular season send-off

Michael Parkhurst has been a wonderful defender not just for Atlanta United but for MLS as a whole and every American or European team he’s ever turned out for.

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That tackle in MLS Cup last year is just one of a whole showreel of defensive highlights from the 35-year-old and on Sunday, he made a cameo appearance from the bench to get a richly deserved ovation from the Five Stripes’ faithful as he announces his retirement from the professional game.

Parkhurst’s leadership and experience were vital as Atlanta sealed the MLS Cup in 2018 and regardless of whether or not Frank de Boer calls upon it again during the playoffs, he’ll go down as a club and MLS legend.

Parkhurst has been central to the birth of one of MLS’ most successful franchises, one that seems set for long-term success each and every season. The culture-building presence of the club captain is crucial to that and it was lovely to see him rewarded with a well-deserved send-off.

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