But among Palace supporters, players and staff alike, you'd be hard pressed to find anyone who would begrudge Abe a chance to make the move up to Major League Soccer. "It couldn't happen to a nicer guy" suggested Palace USA Sporting Director and Co-manager, Jim Cherneski. "He's definitely good enough to play at the top level - did you know he's represented his home country, Mali? He's huge in the air, has not only great vision when he's on the ball but his ability to read the opposition's attacking plays as they develop is second-to-none."

"And don't forget that left foot of his" added Pete Medd, Palace USA's President and Co-manager. "Defenders really don't want to have to deal with a shot from Abe if they can help it!"

When we spoke with Abe, who arrived in Kansas City on Sunday (January 27th, 2008), he told us "It's been fun so far. I've been practicing indoors with the team for the past couple of days and I've been told I'll hear what they think on Thursday or Friday."

Despite his apparent skills at predicting the future, we didn't press him for a guess as to where he'd be spending the upcoming season. We would dearly love to have him back in Baltimore. But if MLS needs him, we'll understand.

UPDATE:  Ibrahim Kante has returned to the Baltimore area having completed his tryout with the Kansas City Wizards.  Although he impressed the Wizards' coaching staff, he and the club were unable to reach agreement on personal terms.