USA boss Juergen Klinsmann believes there needs to be more protection for top MLS players such as Clint Dempsey.
The Seattle Sounders forward was fouled excessively in the 2-1 loss to Toronto FC on the weekend and Klinsmann feels there should be more onus on the referees to look out for this style of play from opposing defences.
"Obviously we are a little bit worried about Clint Dempsey getting fouled I don't how many times in this game against Toronto," Klinsmann said in a video distributed by US Soccer.
"Your key players, in a certain way, you want them to be a little bit protected in a way that people can't overdo it.
"This was one of the main issues already when he came back to MLS last fall. They really kind of banged him in every game. I mean fouled over the edge. I hope that MLS is having an eye on that.
"What I saw there on the weekend [vs. Toronto FC], there were certain things not within the rules in any more. So I hope our players get protection because they need to be healthy going into this World Cup."
Klinsmann is urging MLS to keep an eye out for Dempsey, who was fouled six times against TFC, as he prepares for the 2014 World Cup with the USA team.
