The Seattle Sounders have a bold new X factor which could make the difference

While fan-favorite Nouhou or Obed Vargas scoring their second career goal, or Frei playing in his 400th game for the Sounders, or Musovski scoring in 4 straight games, or their 4 game unbeaten streak, would normally be the headline, there is a new X factor in Seattle.

Ryan Kent has sparked the Sounders, and they are gearing up for a big run. They are undefeated in the games he has played. His minutes have been increasing, and it is not long before he is in the starting 11. In the match against St. Louis City, he made an instant impact. He picked up 2 assists, and every touch on the ball was productive and alluring.

Kent has yet to take a shot, and seems to be attempting to set up his teammates. While in the game, he took over the duty of taking corner kicks, replacing Albert Rusnak for kicks on the left side. Once he does start taking some shots, assuming he is as accurate shooting as he is passing, he will be Seattle's most threatening attacker with Jordan Morris out for at least 6 weeks.

As he gobbles up more minutes, what does that mean for other roster spots. Paul Rothrock might be pushed back to midfield that is already full of talented players. The Sounders claim that competition for minutes and spots is a good thing, which only time will tell. With the spark offered by Kent, the Sounders are starting to cook, and resuscitating an offense to compliment their stout defense is intriguing prospect for the Rave Green.

Before his arrival, the Seattle attack seemed stagnant, but that has been changing with the addition of the new striker. Kent claims that the Seattle ensemble was the "easiest dressing room to settle into." As he has accumulated more minutes, his productivity and his touch on the ball have improved, setting up a successful run for Seattle.