Cahill left off protected list in MLS Expansion Draft

Socceroos star Tim Cahill has been left off his club New York Red Bulls' protected players list for Wednesday’s MLS Expansion Draft.

It means Cahill, who has one year left on his Red Bulls deal, could be picked up by one of the competition’s new franchises in New York City FC or Orlando City.

In addition to Cahill, some of the more high-profile names available are Eddie Johnson (D.C. United), Rais Mbolhi (Philadelphia Union) Kenny Cooper (Seattle), Dominic Oduro (Toronto), Peguy Luyindula (New York Red Bulls), Davy Arnaud (D.C. United), Donovan Ricketts (Portland Timbers) and Ned Grabavoy (Real Salt Lake).

The 34-year-old’s future has been the subject of much speculation in recent weeks following the Red Bulls’ elimination from the MLS finals. 

"You know. I'm going to have a little break with the kids. Chill out. I'm going to play in (the) Asian Cup and try and do well for my country," he told Empire of Soccer. 

"I'll talk with the club afterwards but I've enjoyed it. It's been an unbelievable two and a half years.”

Cahill is currently holidaying in South Africa before heading to Australia shortly to start preparations for January’s Asian Cup. 
 
He was named in Ange Postecoglou's provisional 46-man squad this week.