How will Michael de Leeuw’s scoring prowess translate from Eredivisie to Major League Soccer?
The answer could dictate whether the Chicago Fire is able to drag themselves out of the Eastern Conference cellar and into the muddled playoff picture.
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De Leeuw, 29, averaged just over 11 goals a season during five campaigns in the Netherlands’ top flight, and is bringing that game to Chicago.
Introduced today, De Leeuw will join David Accam in trying to move the meter for Veljko Paunović’s sputtering offense. Chicago is the only team in MLS averaging under a goal a game, and if their defense hasn’t allowed too much behind it. Even average production could be a major upgrade.
MdL: I can adapt between now & my first match July 9. I want to play tomorrow because I want to show Chicago what my capabilities are. #cf97
— Chicago Fire (@ChicagoFire) June 14, 2016
Michael de Leeuw describes positioning as a “nine-and-a-half. I can also play in the role of a 10.” I like to be active in the box. #cf97
— Chicago Fire (@ChicagoFire) June 14, 2016