The Seattle Sounders are making good progress, says coach Sigi Schmid, and they are not far off being realistic contenders for the MLS Championships.

Whilst this year the Soundrs flounders once again in the first round of the playoffs, having performed admirably all season, Schmid is hopeful that next year they will be able to make it the the Playoff Finals, and win the tournament for Seattle.

Schmid is already looking at how to improve the team, and even though the season doesn't start until late February, he has got his management team focussed on getting new signings through the door. "We're already looking at player options and situations," he said.

After the disappointment of this season's Playoffs, Schmid is keen to focus on adding some steel and determination to the team. "There's got to be an improved toughness, hardness, just maturity in us in those difficult moments of difficult games, and that little bit of leadership."

They will need to hit the ground running in Feb, because the first leg of their CONCACAF Champions League Quarter Final takes place in early March. Striker Sanchez insists that this off-season won't be a proper break, as all the players need to make sure they return in good shape.