Quinn to Practice With the Sockers

U.S. national team midfielder Brian Quinn will practice with the Sockers today during the team’s morning workout at Folsom’s, according to his agent, Brian Halliday.

Quinn has not signed a contract with the Sockers, though Halliday said something could be worked out in time for Quinn to play in the Sockers’ home opener Saturday against the St. Louis Storm.

The Sockers open the season Thursday in Dallas and Halliday said, “Brian has missed the Dallas game. The goal is to try to put something together by the weekend.”

Before that happens, if it does, a number of hurdles must be cleared.

The two sides have yet to navigate the financial barrier, although Halliday said, “We’re somewhere in the ballpark.”

Perhaps more troublesome is Quinn’s commitment to the national team, which continues to add more exhibitions to its schedule.

Right now, national team players do not have any commitments until Jan. 15, which would allow Quinn--if he signs with the Sockers--to play in 23 of the club’s 40 games. Halliday said another short-term contract arrangement could be reached for the latter part of the indoor season as well.

Halliday said Quinn decided to join the team he from which he “retired” during the summer because he wants to be ready if something is worked out.

“If Quinny is going to play, he has to be training,” Halliday said. “And he has to be fit. It would be stupid to sit around and wait, wait, wait, and then on Saturday something is worked out where he can play.”

Quinn sounded hopeful that he will be back with the team he helped to seven championships in eight seasons.

“I think it can be worked out,” he said. “But we have to overcome some schedule problems.”

In other news, Sockers defender David Banks likely will miss the season opener Thursday because of visa problems.