Sanneh Signs For Galaxy
As expected, Tony Sanneh, 37, finalized a contract today with the Galaxy that will likely see him partner top draft pick Omar Gonzalez in the middle of a young defense.
The former U.S. international didn't play in the league last year, but has returned to reclaim a roster spot on the Galaxy with long-time mentor Bruce Arena.
"I knew that I still had the ability and desire to play the game, I just had to see if my body would hold up after the time off, but I've been happy with my progress throughout the preseason," Sanneh said.
Sanneh played 117 games over a seven-year MLS career with D.C. United, the Columbus Crew, Chicago Fire and Colorado Rapids, winning two MLS Cups with Arena. He also played with FC Nurnberg and Hertha Berlin in Germany between his 43 U.S. caps, many under Arena.
"We are pleased to be able to add a proven defender such as Tony," Arena said. "He is an experienced player who has played at the highest level in the game and knows what it takes to win the MLS Cup."
Sanneh will make his Galaxy regular season debut Sunday in Carson against D.C. United.
4 Comments
Leave a comment
About 100 Percent Soccer
Sportswriter Nick Green has written the 100 Percent Soccer column since 2005 for the Daily News, Daily Breeze and other Los Angeles area newspapers. The blog of the same name began in 2007. A native of England, he began writing about soccer in the mid-1980s and in 2000 permanently exchanged a seat in the stands for one in the press box. He lives six miles from Carson's Home Depot Center, home of the Los Angeles Galaxy, Chivas USA and the training headquarters for U.S. Soccer and is married to a long-suffering soccer widow. Join Nick on FaceBook and follow him on Twitter.
It's official then. Not that there was any doubt Sanneh would be signed, but I can't really get too excited about this one.
Hey Nick, what's the word on Dunivant? Seems like there is some extended rehab going on. I was under the impression that he was healthy, but not match fit.
Was he re-injured?
Nick replies: I don't think Dunivant suffered any sort of setback; Bruce Arena told me Monday he's still about a month away from getting back on the field. It's a bit of a mystery to me why the Galaxy got rid of a healthy Ante Jazic (at the time) and brought in a very similar player making similar money who came in injured.
Nick, it is because Bruce, brought in players he either traded away before or players he has good relationship with. (Tony, Dunivant, Magee, Mags, Dema)
I don't understand his thinking of bringing in "older" players for LA. Tony hadn't played in a year and for sure will be burnt by younger/faster strikers.
Jazic was let go to clean up the locker room I bet you. Sanneh will be a great asset if he stays healthy. A bit slow but we need some depth there. Every team is looking for a good center half. There are not too many bargains out there people.
Arena named Donovan as captain and Lewis as vice-captain at the luncheon yesterday. So Becks will march in at the end of line if/when he comes back. YES.
Also, Arena has set a modest goal of winning 8 home games this year which he figures should put them in the playoffs. I don't know if the math works out but he seemed to think so.
Galaxy roster is heavy on American players which I really admire. A bit short on quality over all but should outwork most teams. Let's hope for the best this season. This team and organization need a boost for all they have done for this league. Go Galaxy.
Nick replies: Thanks for the update (I was unable to make the fan luncheon). Was there many people there? What was the mood?
Nick, at al,
Re the luncheon, excellent turnout of 200 fans, plus sponsors and media. Great luncheon in a huge room with the entire team present. First class arrangement and reception. Very good video productions as well. This is the first time I recall the kickoff luncheon being provided free to the supporters.
Mood was very positive and the team was welcomed warmly. People genuinely love this team and the players but are also realistic about our chances this year. Not one at my table of 10 said they want Beckham back and all want the saved money to be spent on improving the team. Everyone was upbeat about the expansion to the Northwest and the MLS future as well.
Nick replies: Thanks for the perspective. A free lunch can't hurt in the PR department. And that Beckham view does seem to be the prevailing one.