Cuauhtemoc Blanco has certainly been the real deal for the Chicago Fire since his arrival in late July. While David Beckham has garnered all the headlines with the Los Angeles Galaxy,  the former Mexican international has been a hit both on the field, as well as, at the box office for his new club. 

Playing in front of the large Mexican American community in Chicago has certainly given attendance a boost in the Windy City, and his play has helped Juan Carlos Osorio’s side go on an impressive tear of late. In fact, the Fire have lost just one of their last 10 matches since Blanco’s arrival while winning 4 and drawing the remaining 5.

Blanco has scored 4 goals while providing the assist for 6 other goals and always seems to be involved in their scoring chances. Even more impressive than the numbers has been his ability to raise the level of his teammates. At the time of his arrival, not only were the Fire struggling near the bottom of the overall league table, but they were depleted by  a number of injuries to their more important players such as Justin Mapp and Chris Rolfe. His ability to break down the opposition with his pinpoint passing and the occasional set piece, has opened up loads of space in attack for players such as Calen Carr and Paulo Cesar Wanchope to exploit.

Now with just 2 matches left in their season, they hold a 5 point edge over their closest competition for the 8^th and final playoff spot. Now, if manager Osorio can keep his prized play maker healthy until the first playoff match, the Fire could prove to be an extremely dangerous side to contend with in the post season.

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