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Ben Olsen will lead the MLS All-Stars against Chelsea, as the D.C. United manager has been named named the new coach of the All-Star game. He replaces Peter Nowak, who was essentially fired by the Philadelphia Union last week. Olsen has led United to the top of the Eastern Conference table and to the second highest point total in MLS (30).
"This is a huge honor," Olsen said in a statement released by the league. "This League has been a major part of my life, both as a player and now as a coach, and it’s given me a lot. Ultimately, this recognition comes because of my team and my staff, but to represent the League on a big stage like this is a real privilege."
Among Olsen's assistants will be John Hackworth, who is the new Union manager.
Olsen has done an impressive job in his two years at United, taking them from one of the worst teams in MLS history to one of the top teams in the league this year. Their +10 goal-difference is the second best total in the league.