The Los Angeles Galaxy's plans to increase their international exposure received a boost with the announcement that a new team called the Gold Coast Galaxy will join Australia's A-League.

The Major League Soccer team made a big impression when it travelled Down Under for a friendly against Sydney FC last month, with around 90,000 turning out to see David Beckham and his teammates. Gold Coast chiefs are determined to finalize a deal with their Los Angeles counterparts – the partnership ranging from something as simple as Galaxy shirts being sold in the Aussie team's shop to a more in-depth program that involves training visits and loaning players.

Soccer in Australia is starting to mount a real challenge in terms of popularity to the traditional sports like Australian Rules football and rugby. Brazilian legend Romario played for Adelaide last season and former Manchester United striker Dwight Yorke spent a year at Sydney FC in 2005-06.

THOUGHT OF THE DAY

"I want to be called up but if not then I will cheer Italy on while I am on holiday" – Fiorentina's Christian Vieri on his chances of a return to the Italian national team.

Here are some Related Links: