Since when did Central Europe become a hotbed for MLS talent? The league has been anticipating the arrival of Swiss forward Blaise Nkufo from FC Twente since the winter. And make no mistake when you see him in person – he’s built like a middle linebacker.

And despite Thursday night’s loss to Seattle, D.C. United fans got a tantalizing preview of what Montenegrin Branko Boskovic might be capable of providing as much-needed inspiration for a sagging attack. Not only was his left foot exquisite – what jumped out was a late cross that Boskovic tried to attack by leaning back and sticking his leg out instead of diving. Although he didn’t connect, the move showed savvy and creativity, the kind that has been sorely lacking at RFK Stadium, aside from Andy Najar’s runs up and down the wing. Boskovic didn't get as much of the ball against the Galaxy, but he'll get two games this week to work on his form.

Then there’s Serb Marko Perovic in New England. Hello, another game winner, this time versus Chicago in SuperLiga. Last weekend it was the same thing against MLS-leading Los Angeles. Perovic is second on the Revolution with three goals in league play.

The point is, who’s to blame for stealing the thunder from South America, which had ruled the MLS export market for the last few seasons? Dejan Drobnjak and Oliver Wyss at up-and-coming W3Soccer, which also helped send Sacha Kljestan to Anderlecht in May. The transfer window may have just officially opened, but W3Soccer has been mighty busy all season, showing a keen eye for the needs of MLS and its players. Let's just put it this way: more could be to come.