1. Avoid losses in the transfer market.
It’s no secret that Brek Shea and George John have been the subject of transfer rumors throughout the season. John was in the final stages of a transfer to the EPL in August before the deal fell through. International interest in Shea has grown exponentially with his impressive performances with the US National Team. The departure of either player would create a devastating hole for the team. Outside of Hartman, John logged the most minutes (2,781), most games started (31) and finished the season as the 8th rated player in the MLS Castrol Index. Shea led the team with 11 goals, five game-winning goals, and chipped in with four assists.
2. Find that striker
What's new right? A number of forwards had the chance to seize the role in Dallas, but none delivered on a consistent basis. Milton Rodríguez started the season as the lone striker, but was released in July. Maicon Santos was brought in midseason to help, but is now available in the Re-Entry Draft. And Jackson, who started the season at right back, was elevated to the forward position for the final stretch. Is the answer currently on the roster? Possibly. Former FCD Academy player Ruben Luna showed a knack for scoring in the Reserve League, netting 10 goals in 10 games.
3. Build depth or develop the kids
FC Dallas take pride in their Academy, which was recently rated as tops in the country by US Soccer. Six Academy players currently sit on their roster, the highest number in MLS. But the Home Grown talent provided little in terms of production in 2011. Moises Hernandez, Bryan Leyva, Ruben Luna, Richard Sanchez, Jonathan Top and Victor Ulloa all held roster spots, yet only Luna (407 min, one goal and one assist) and Ulloa (nine minutes played) saw the pitch in MLS play. The club must make a decision: Release the youngsters or let them play. Either way, FC Dallas will surely be looking for serviceable backup options outside of the organization.