Colorado in Search of the Next DP

• Yahoo Sports, Thursday, August 30, 2007 4 PM

As Yahoo Sports' Martin Rogers points out, it's a lot easier to lure a big name designated player to New York or L.A. than it is to bring one to say, Denver. That presents something of a problem for Rapids GM Jeff Plush, who's desperate to follow in the footsteps of New York, L.A., Chicago and Dallas in adding a marquee name to help boost Colorado's playoff chances.

"Denver is not Los Angeles -- that is why those of us who live here love it," Plush said. "But we are no good to someone who is going to be attracted to that glitzier scene and the flashbulbs and Hollywood. They are not going to come to Denver and that is OK. If they are averse to cold weather, they are going to have a problem living here. It is all part of the process of trying to find the right [player]."

As many already know, Rapids owner Kroenke Sports Enterprises has deep enough pockets to lure then next big player to MLS. Plush is on the case, but he's taking his time. "[When] you talk about this kind of a player and the amount of money we would be spending outside of a salary cap, you have to get the right one who will fit in and not turn everything upside down." In other words, don't expect a flashy Beckham-like signing from Colorado, Rogers says; Plush is far more likely to sign a solid, dependable team player from either France or Italy, where they're used to cold weather and know how to ski.

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