Donovan leads MLS All-Star First XI with 12th selection

New York, NY – Landon Donovan made Major League Soccer history on Sunday as he was named to his 12th consecutive All-Star Game.

The Los Angeles Galaxy talisman has been voted into every MLS All-Star Game since entering the league as a teenager in 2001, passing former United States national team staple Eddie Pope who appeared in 11 midsummer classics.

Joining Donovan in the First XI for the MLS All-Star Game (which takes place in Chester, Pennsylvania on July 25 against reigning European champions Chelsea) is his Galaxy teammateDavid Beckham, who is making his third All-Star appearance.

Vancouver Whitecaps FC's Jay DeMerit and Red Bull New York's Thierry Henry were included in the list as well, giving the MLS team four players in the First XI who have spent time in the English Premier League. DeMerit enjoyed an EPL stint with Watford while Henry is still a legend at London club Arsenal.

The First XI will not necessarily be the starting lineup used by head coach Ben Olsen. The D.C. United boss will select the starters based on availability and tactical considerations.

The remainder of the All-Star Game lineup, including two picks from MLS Commissioner Don Garber, will be announced July 15 during halftime of New York's match against Seattle Sounders FC.

2012 MLS All-Star First XI:

GOALKEEPER: Jimmy Nielsen (Sporting Kansas City).

DEFENDERS: Steven Beitashour (San Jose Earthquakes), Aurelien Collin (Sporting Kansas City), Jay DeMerit (Vancouver Whitecaps FC), Heath Pearce (Red Bull New York).

MIDFIELDERS: David Beckham (Los Angeles Galaxy), Dwayne De Rosario (D.C. United), Landon Donovan (Los Angeles Galaxy), Graham Zusi (Sporting Kansas City).

FORWARDS: Thierry Henry (Red Bull New York), Chris Wondolowski (San Jose Earthquakes).