Players concerned over MLS strike implications

United States striker Brian Ching is worried a possible Major League Soccer strike could hurt the chances of domestic-based players to make the World Cup squad.

The MLS' first strike became a possibility after players failed to match league management's no-lockout pledge with a no-strike offer during labor talks this week.

The league's first collective bargaining agreement expired Jan. 31, and the sides twice extended bargaining, with the latest additional time running out Thursday.

Players say they want increased free-agent rights and more guaranteed contracts, which the league says it is unable to offer.

"If we're not playing games week in and week out, that puts us at a big disadvantage," Ching said Wednesday after helping the U.S. rally past El Salvador 2-1 in an international friendly. "Hopefully, it doesn't happen."

MLS president Mark Abbott said last weekend the league will not lock out players and is prepared to start the season under the terms and conditions of the expired five-year contract.

An MLS strike could postpone the first game of new team the Philadelphia Union and the official opening of Red Bull Arena.

While the league season is due to start March 25, when Philadelphia Union travels to Seattle, Columbus hosts Mexican club Toluca on March 9 in the quarterfinals of the CONCACAF Champions League, then plays the second leg at the Mexican club eight days later.

CONCACAF, the regional governing body, isn't sure how it would deal with a strike, whether it would cause a postponement or a forfeit.