[MLS] Chivas USA confirmed that its 2008 team MVP, midfielder Sacha Kljestan, will be back for the 2009 season after testing the waters in Europe with a week-long trial at Glasgow Celtic in January.

The 23-year-old Kljestan, who scored a hat trick in the USA's 3-2 friendly win over Sweden on Jan. 24, earned MLS Best XI honors after leading Chivas USA in assists (7) and goals (5, tied) in 22 league matches played last year, his third season in the league.

"We are happy to have Sacha Kljestan back with us," said Chivas USA coach Preki Radosavljevic. "Over the past three years Sacha has grown into an important contributor to our team. We look forward to watching him continue to grow as a player and as a leader during this important season."