MetroFanatic: Zach, could you compare what was going on 12 years ago and what's going on now?
Zach Thornton: Ummmm...

MF: It's such a rarity to have someone here who was here 12 years ago.
ZT: It's similar in a lot of ways. There was so much going on here back then with the new league, the new team. In New York City, there was a lot of enthusiasm around the team. And now, with the ownership of Red Bull, they're trying to create a lot of excitement.

MF: You came back here after a long absence. What made you come back to New York?
ZT: I'm from the East coast. It's good to be close to my family again. It's where I started, and it looks like I'm gonna end my career here.

MF: You didn't play a lot last year, are you in shape to play if necessary?
ZT: Yep. I'm fit. That's up to the coach, though, if he gives me a chance to play or not.