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ESPN staff 6y

Eric Wynalda, Kyle Martino considering U.S. Soccer alliance - report

Eric Wynalda and Kyle Martino are considering forming an alliance ahead of the U.S. Soccer Federation presidential election, according to the Washington Post.

The two former U.S. internationals have both been advocates for change as two of eight candidates to succeed Sunil Gulati, who will not seek a fourth term in charge.

The Post, citing multiple sources, reported that Wynalda approached Martino about joining forces in order to help boost one of their candidacies.

The two did not reveal details, though both said they respected each others' platforms.

"I have a high opinion of Kyle and it would be something I would definitely encourage if it meant one or the other was going to win the election," Wynalda told the Post. "I would certainly consider it. If he and I need to partner up, I would be in favor of that simply because we are both agents of change."

Martino cautioned that he had not agreed to an alliance but confirmed he had met with Wynalda.

"I have a lot of respect for the way Eric has brought both the need for change and the need for deep soccer knowledge to the forefront of this campaign," Martino said.

More clarity on their plans could come ahead of a debate at the United Soccer Coaches convention in Philadelphia next week. The election is Feb. 10.

Martino made headlines earlier this week when he alleged that U.S. Soccer had allowed its marketing partner SUM -- run by fellow candidate Kathy Carter -- to dictate the site of a World Cup qualifying match last year. U.S. Soccer rejected the claims as "categorically false."

Martino then called on Gulati to announce his support of Carter if he is backing her. Gulati has not made a public endorsement.

Also running for the post are former national team players Paul Caligiuri and Hope Solo, lawyers Steve Gans and Michael Winograd and USSF vice president Carlos Cordeiro.

Earlier on Friday, ESPN FC asked all eight candidates to address a series of questions about their campaigns.

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