Videira joins the ranks of returnees
- by Ridge Mahoney @ridgemax, Dec 30, 2008
Former Duke midfielder Michael Videira, who was a Hermann Trophy semifinalist in his sophomore, junior and senior seasons, has signed with the Revolution following a six-month stint in Scotland.
"When we drafted Michael last year, we were aware of his desire to play abroad," said Revs VP of player personnel Mike Burns in a press release announcing the signing. "However, we're pleased to add him to our roster now that he's joined Major League Soccer."
Contract terms were not disclosed. As a second-round pick who opted for Europe rather than go straight into MLS, Vidiera is likely working for the 2009 league minimum ($34,000) or slightly above it. The native of Milford, Mass., will start preseason on the Revs' regular 18-man roster.
When ex-Notre Dame all-American Greg Dalby, a second-round pick of the Rapids in 2007, decided to come back earlier this year he signed for the 2008 minimum of $33,000. Dalby, who captained the U.S. at the 2005 FIFA U-20 World Cup, bounced around Europe on trial and finally settled with Charleroi in Belgium but never established himself.
Videira, who turns 23 next week, had signed a short-term contract with Hamilton Academical of the Scottish Premier League last summer after he'd trained with several teams in Europe. Injuries impaired his progress and he failed to make a first-team appearance before being released earlier this month.
In 80 games for Duke, Videira scored 17 goals and added 15 assists while earning NSCAA third-team all-America honors in 2006 and 2007. He has also played for the U.S. U-18 and U-20 national teams.
By adding Videira, the Revs have addressed issues in midfield. They lost Khano Smith to Seattle in the expansion draft and need some cover for Steve Ralston, who will be 35 next year and is coming off a season shortened by a broken leg.
