When Mike Grella passed on the 2009 MLS draft, it was unclear where the Duke striker would test the professional soccer waters. It appears his quest for a professional contract has landed him in England.
Grella is on trial with Leeds United, and scored three goals in Leeds' reserve match against Barnsley on Tuesday. Leeds, once an English Premier League power, now plays in League 1, the English third division.
According to sources, Grella joined Leeds late last week and was in England last Thursday when the MLS Draft took place. Toronto FC, which was aware of Grella's Leeds trial, selected him with the 34th overall pick in the MLS Draft.
Grella holds an Italian passport, which allowed him to play in the Leeds reserve match. He is free to sign with the English club, and his Italian passport will allow him to sign anywhere in Europe he can secure a contract.
What do you think of Grella trying his hand at Leeds? Think he would have been better off in MLS? See him making it big in Europe? Think he will wash out and be playing for Toronto FC in a year?
Share your thoughts below.