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As soon as Portland somewhat surprisingly selected Robbie Findley and Jonathan Bornstein in the expansion draft, every Sounders fan (and to a lesser extent the fans of every other MLS team) wished both a long and successful career overseas. Findley took a big step towards his today as he signed with English Championship side Nottingham Forest.
The deal is still pending a work permit, but there seems to be some confidence that a player that featured so frequently in the US national team in a World Cup year (for whatever reason. Thanks, Bob) should be able to secure one on appeal. Findley had completed his MLS contract and my understanding of the arcane MLS rules means that Portland doesn't get any compensation in the free transfer. Forest is currently 7th in the Championship but is tied for 4th in GD and should have a decent shot to at least make the promotion playoffs. Here's hoping that he has a breakout few months and becomes a Forest legend.
Bornstein, for his part, begins play with Tigres when the Mexican Clausura season starts on January 8.