Kyle Martino, former U.S. National Team player and Major League Soccer standout, has joined Fox Soccer Channel as host of Soccer Talk Live, a new original series premiering Monday, Aug. 16 at 7 p.m. ET.
Presented by Progressive Insurance and available in high-definition, Soccer Talk Live is a fast-paced, entertaining, hour-long studio show airing every Monday from August through May. Martino's guests will range from world-class athletes to musicians, actors and authors, all discussing their passion for the "beautiful game" and how soccer impacts their lives.
During the debut episode Martino welcomes Landon Donovan, LA Galaxy midfielder and leading goal scorer in U.S. Soccer history. Donovan recently led the Americans to a Round of 16 finish at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, galvanizing the nation with his heroic extra-time goal vs. Algeria to secure a spot in the knockout stage.
Soccer Talk Live viewers will be treated to an in-depth recap of the week in international soccer, get insights directly from the stars of the game and have an opportunity to engage with the program to share their opinions on the latest news, rumors and upcoming matches. Fans can follow the show on Twitter @soccertalklive, and "Like" it on Facebook.
Meanwhile, Temryss Lane will contribute a weekly feature segment exploring the world of soccer with those who play and support the game passionately.
"Soccer Talk Live is a unique and exciting live forum for us to connect with soccer fans, bringing them high-profile guests and the most interesting and compelling stories from the sport we love so much," said David Nathanson, General Manager of Fox Soccer Channel. "With his experience as a player and as an on-air personality, Kyle Martino is the perfect host for this dynamic forum, and we are excited to welcome him to the Fox Soccer Channel family."
Martino brings extensive credentials on and off-the-field to Fox Soccer Channel. He recently served as a color commentator for both national and local MLS match telecasts, following a playing career for club and country. After earning Atlantic Coast Conference Player of the Year honors at Virginia in 2001, the midfielder entered MLS with the Columbus Crew and promptly garnered 2002 Rookie of the Year honors. On the international stage, he earned eight caps for the United States, scoring a goal in a 2002 World Cup qualifying match vs. Panama. Martino retired from professional soccer due to injury in 2008 as a member of the Los Angeles Galaxy.
