If Brad Evans plays vs. FC Dallas you can thank his first-class travel

The length of travel is often cited as one of the elements that make the transition to Major League Soccer difficult for foreign players. But it's not just the long flights, it's how teams choose to travel. The vast majority of players fly coach, leading to situations like this.

Well, things are a bit different on the United States national team and if Brad Evans is able to play for the Seattle Sounders on Saturday against FC Dallas, we can all be thankful that's the case.

"With the U.S. team now, when you're traveling internationally you're flying business or first so you can lie flat and get some sleep," Evans told the assembled media following Friday's training session, of which he was a full participant. "That changes things dramatically in terms of your availability for the next game. If I sat in coach, sitting like that, there's no way."

As it was, Evans played 45 minutes -- and picked up the winning assist -- was able to take an overnight flight from Germany and got into Seattle at 11 a.m. on Thursday, perfectly rested.

"I think the flight was at a good time yesterday," Evans said. "I stayed up and got a good night's rest. Take care of the body today and we'll have a conversation later today."

Although we won't know for sure until the lineups are announced, it sounds as though Evans could even start.