A few weeks ago, Shalrie Joseph, who has perennially been linked with a move away from Boston, was named New England Revolution captain. On Saturday, the player said he would give up the honor and seek a trade due to a breakdown in contract negotiations with the club.

Last year Joseph, who earns $167,500 annually, was the subject of repeated transfer advances from Scottish champion Celtic, which ultimately offered more than $1 million for the player, according to agent Ron Waxman. Joseph has been seeking a new three-year contract. Waxman said the Revs were off by less than $10,000 for the first year, but off by between $50,000 and $60,000 for bonuses. Contract negotiations have now concluded, Waxman said, and Joseph will likely ask for a trade.

"I wouldn't be able to lead these guys," Joseph told the Boston Globe on Sunday. "I have been patient and I have been the good boy they wanted me to be, but I can't wait any more. Our next practice is Wednesday and when that day comes around, I am going to tell my teammates." Joseph has been a midfield stalwart for the Revs for several years now; it was his holding presence in midfield that helped the team reach the MLS Cup final for two successive seasons. "We have a great team and I see us getting to the final every year and winning championships," Joseph added. "But if I am not that important to them, another team might value me more." Read the original story...