If you want to make a splash in MLS news circles, best not to try on the same day the U.S. national team’s best player is re-introduced into the league.
Still, there were other developments.
The biggest was Michael Parkhurst getting back into MLS. Count Parkhurst (pictured) among the set that idles just beyond the top of the U.S. national team rotation. Parkhurst, 29, did collect six starts for Jurgen Klinsmann last year at right back, so he remains in the picture.
Now he’s back in MLS, and it’s a great “get” for Columbus.
The Crew, under the direction of a former U.S. center back in Gregg Berhalter, acquired Parkhurst’s rights Monday from New England, also announcing that they had come to terms with the U.S. defender.
Parkhurst was as solid as they come in his days with the Revolution (2005-08).
Parkhurst spent five seasons with Danish Superliga side F.C. Nordsjælland (2008-2013) before a move to Germany’s Augsburg, where things never quite took off. He’ll be among the most cerebral defenders (while probably moving back to center back). In his days with New England, Parkhurst could darn near tell you about every foul for which he was whistled – because his high-quality positional approach meant he got called for precious few of them.
The Crew had to hand off the No. 4 pick in Thursday’s draft. So, perhaps New England has a pick in mind for which they needed to move up in Thursday’s order? Remember, Jay Heaps and Co. traded up in the order last year and ended up with a gem in defender Andrew Farrell. Here, a couple of the big brains from MLSSoccer.com debate as to whom New England may covet this year.
But, since this day does belong to Defoe, Bradley and all the bold stroking folks around Exhibition Place in Toronto, we’ll gladly give them the last word.
They reminded us that for all the flash and dash and glitz and glam or it all, it’s still about winning trophies.
