Steve Ralston has spent 14 years playing in Major League Soccer. He is now set to return to where his soccer career truly began.
The long-time New England Revolution midfielder was introduced on Monday as the first player signed by NASL club AC St. Louis.
"This is a day I always dreamed would happen,” said Ralston. “I think anyone who plays professional sports wants to play in their hometown. I am fortunate to get to do just that at this stage of my career.
"Obviously it is an exciting time for soccer in St. Louis since we now have our own professional team," Ralston said. "I am honored to be the first player to become a part of this new franchise.”
Ralston will serve as a player as well as assistant coach under AC St. Louis head coach Claude Anelka.
The MLS career leader in assists (135) and games played (378), Ralston left New England after eight seasons. He is recovering from ACL surgery for an injury suffered last September and has stated he could be back in action by may. One of the last remaining MLS originals (players who have been in the league since the inaugural season in 1996), Ralston will be 36 in June.
What do you think of this news? Disappointed to see Ralston leave MLS? Think this could be the first of several players to pass on MLS offers for better deals in USL?
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