While reading an excellent piece on Seattle commercial approach and the coming grassroots-created energy of the Portland Timbers over at Pitch Invasion, I had a thought, one involving an MLS expansion franchise that will hit the league a year before Portland.

What's going on in Philly?

Philly enters the league as Major League Soccer's 17th team next spring, and while the preparations are surely chugging along, we haven't heard much recently. I thought I'd do a little digging see what I could find, and pass it along to you.

According to MFUSA partner site footiebusiness.com, Philadelphia is nearing 10k in season ticket sales. A good number, and they're hitting it seven months before the first kick of a ball at Chester Stadium.

Speaking of Chester Stadium, work continues on the Union's future home, and that March 2010 deadline seems to be in sight. Photos of the construction are up on the Union's Facebook page, and the club's Twitter account indicates that a webcam (ala Red Bull Arena's) should be up shortly so that fans can monitor the progress.

Much has been made of Portland and Vancouver's entry into the league in 2011 because it will create a natural set of rivalries (along with Seattle) in the Northwest; I would argue that Philadelphia's entry is just as important in the Northeast, as it will complete a solid string of teams along I-95 that should add to the league's growing travelling support. Away supporters not only fill seats, but they help foster a passionate antagonism that will serve MLS well in the future.