Much ado about Edu

• by Soccer America , Dec 20, 2007

One year ago, Maurice Edu was contemplating leaving Maryland early to join MLS.

Now after only one year with Toronto FC, Edu must consider a move from MLS to Europe.

Toronto coach Mo Johnston told the National Post Wednesday that European clubs are interested in Edu, who was named the 2007 MLS Rookie of the Year and earned his first caps for the USA in wins at Switzerland South Africa.

He played in midfield for the senior national team and earned praise from U-23 coach Peter Nowak for his play as an emergency choice in the middle of the backline on the U-23s' trip to China.

British news outlets have reported that Aston Villa manager Martin O'Neill is high on Edu, who was born and raised in California to Nigerian parents. Villa played at TFC on its North American tour last summer.

Edu would not comment about specifics regarding offers from Europe.

"They haven't contacted me directly and the only info I really know is through my coach, Mo Johnston," Edu told the National Post. "I love it in Toronto and the club and city have been really great to me. I have aspirations to play in Europe so when opportunities come, I'll consider them and determine if I think they are a good fit or not."