LA Galaxy forward Landon Donovan is looking forward to again meeting former coach Frank Yallop.

The Galaxy take on Yallop's San Jose Earthquakes this weekend and Donovan is keen to go into battle against his former mentor who he admits gave him a good start in the professional football world.

"We're still friends," said Donovan, who also played for Yallop on the Galaxy from 2006-2007. "We chat once in a while. Frank really gave me a start as a professional, and I obviously owe a lot to him. It's going to be a lot of fun to see him."

Donovan went on to praise Yallop, saying he is a great person to play under and play for.

"Frank is pretty laid-back," Donovan added. "He's a players' coach, but he has his moments where if you're not doing what he asks of you then he'll let you know about it.

"For the most part, I think every guy in the league that's played for him would say that you always want to play for Frank. He's a good motivator and he makes sure you're ready to play every game."