Clint Dempsey’s attacking skills petrified defenders in 2012 as the American had his finest year yet — and with the World Cup looming is the best yet to come? (Associated Press file photo).

Messi, Donovan, Dempsey, Beckham, Gonzalez, Morgan figured prominently in the world of soccer in 2012.

Read more here and I’ll return in 2013 with World Cup qualifying, the earliest start to an MLS season ever, new eras for the Galaxy and Chivas USA and much more in what’s already shaping up to be a busy and compelling year.

Thanks for reading and see you in 2013.