By DAN KARELL
The Portland Timbers are riding an impressive 15-match unbeaten streak in MLS play, and several of the play players behind that successful run have decided to stick around or a while.
The Timbers announced on Monday that forward Darlington Nagbe, midfielders Kalif Alhassan and Diego Chara, and goalkeeper Donovan Ricketts had all signed new contracts with the team, keeping a talented core of players around for future seasons.
Very pleased to announce we have agreed to contract extensions for Nagbe, Chara, Ricketts & Alhassan. Still working on a couple more. #RCTID
— Portland Timbers (@TimbersFC) July 1, 2013
Nagbe, the team’s first pick of the 2011 MLS SuperDraft, is second on the Timbers with five goals so far this season. Chara, the Timbers first ever designated player signing, has contributed three assists this season, as has Alhassan. Ricketts, who joined the Timbers this offseason, has recorded eight clean sheets in 16 games and has just one loss this season.
The announcement comes just days after the club announced the acquisition of Jamaican national team defender Alvas Powell. The 18-year-old right back has joined the team on loan from Portmore United. Sources have confirmed to SBI that Powell’s move is a two-year loan deal, with an option for a third year. The Timbers also have a purchase option on the young defender, who started for Jamaica in recent World Cup qualifying matches, including the team’s 2-1 loss to the United States.
What do you think of these moves? Excited to see these players committing long-term to the Timbers?
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