Philadelphia Union come to terms with Maurice Edu
Mar 25, 2013; Mexico City, MEXICO; United States midfielder Maurice Edu at training session at Estadio Azteca in advance of World Cup qualifying match against Mexico. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Goal.com’s Ives Galarcep reports that the Philadelphia Union have come to terms with USA Men’s National Team midfielder Maurice Edu. Per league and club policy, the terms of the contract will not be disclosed. Edu will make the move from Premier League side Stoke City.
This gives the Union another piece to the puzzle. Edu spent the last two years at Stoke but has been unable to receive sufficient playing time. This isn’t the first time Edu has plied his trade in MLS. Early on in his career, he played for Toronto FC from 2007-08. He also played for Rangers FC from 2008-12, as well as Bursaspor on loan in 2013.
The club already signed Christian Maidana, an Argentine midfielder, as a designated player. Goal.com also reports that Sochaux midfielder Vincent Nogueira is close to joining the Union.
“I was able to see Cristian play several times and I came away extremely impressed with his technical skills, creativity and one vs. one ability,” said team manager John Hackworth to reporters last week. “After having met him personally, I felt even more confident that he was the type of person and player who can benefit our club on and off the field. We are excited that Cristian is a member of the Union.”
Meanwhile, former MLS standout Chris Albright is ready to contribute as a member of the Union’s technical staff. Albright’s role as assistant technical director includes player management and movement as well as player and coaching decisions, corporate business development, youth development and community efforts throughout all of Philadelphia.
“It’s great, and I’m obviously excited about staying in the league with the Union,” Albright said in a telephone interview with philadelphiaunion.com’s Andy Jasner. “It’s a natural transition for me and I’m so excited to be doing it here. When I was playing earlier in my career, there wasn’t even a franchise in Philadelphia. To be able to stay active in the game here in Philadelphia, it’s a great feeling.
“I think I’ll miss the day-to-day camaraderie, especially as an older veteran player. I liked helping the younger players and I think I have experience in that role which will prepare me for the next phase of my life in soccer. I’m looking forward to the challenge.
“I feel like I have so much to offer. I know the guys here on the Union and there’s a great presence in the locker room. I’m going to offer all I can to the club. I love the team. I love the city and the passion of the fan base. It’s a great opportunity at the perfect point in my life.”