“That’s what made it so frustrating,” said Makubuya. “If we were losing, why not give us a chance to play? But it is a business, and that is how it goes. But it was tough on a lot of us.”

Fifteen candidates were screened by the NASL’s search team — but the choice was made to make former AEG executive and NFL Europe president Bill Peterson the league’s new commissioner.

The on again, off again relationship between striker Sadi Jalali and FC Edmonton is back on again.

“This famous stadium brings back a lot of memories,” said Miller, thinking back to the many World Cup qualifiers he played for Canada on the old grass at Commonwealth, as well as that famous 1-1 draw with Brazil back in 1994. “Edmonton was our home at the time,” said Miller. “We were very passionate about playing here.”

"It is hard to figure out why this team didn't get better results with the talent they have."

Nick Dasovic spoke with FC Edmonton’s front office about the vacant coaching position, but he remains committed to the Canadian U-20 program.

“He is one of my favourite players in the league,” said Laing. “He’s a very good defender. He’s a very good tackler and he’s good off the ball.”

The Eddies’ back line received a major upgrade when the team announced Wednesday that it had signed Neil Hlavaty and Lance Laing to deals.

It’s expected that former Vancouver Whitecaps assistant and Canadian national-teamer Colin Miller will be named the new boss, but the club itself has not confirmed any candidate.

The news that U-20 coach Nick Dasovic will be in the United States and Costa Rica from Nov. 20-30 looks to have taken him off the board for the FC Edmonton coaching job.