Montreal Impact acquire Donovan Ricketts from Los Angeles Galaxy in exchange of allocation money
Los Angeles Galaxy sneaked out of the 2011 Expansion Draft without any damages to their roster but Montreal Impact made an intelligent move this weekend; offering the Galaxy allocation money in exchange of their star goalkeeper Donovan Ricketts.
The Galaxy finalized the deal later on Monday. The Jamaican international will be sporting the Impacts colours in forthcoming 2012 season.
The 34-year-old Caribbean-native started his MLS stint with Los Galacticos in 2009 and led a privileged 3-year term with the Southern Californian outfit.
During his first season, the shot-stopper played a vital part in taking the team to MLS Cup final against Real Salt Lake. In addition, he was also named MLS All-Star, owing to his brilliant performances in maiden MLS season.
The Jamaican continued the hot streak in the following year. Even though the team could not make it to the MLS Cup final, they won the Supporters’ Shield securing a group stage berth in the 2011/12 CONCACAF Champions League.
The custodian notched 11 clean sheets and posted 0.90 goals against average in 2010 season. Due to his best performances, the player again received a nod for the MLS All-Star team in 2011.
The 2011 term started with wealthy prospects for Ricketts. He started the first 15 games and notched 7 clean sheets. However, his flamboyant stint at the Galaxy came to a halt when he fractured his left ulna. In the interim period, back-up goalkeeper, Josh
Saunders made a strong statement and became head coach Bruce Arena’s first choice in the starting line-up.
“While I know Saunders is the best choice for the Galaxy in 2012, my only regret is the fact that I like having two strong keepers on our team,” said Arena.
Weighing his options after Ricketts departure, Arena said: “With Ricketts gone, Brian Perk is most likely the Galaxy’s backup keeper. Although Perk kept a clean sheet against the Seattle Sounders, he has a lack of experience. Still, his two saves in his
MLS debut were impressive.”
Ricketts still has the skill-set to be one of the best custodians in the league despite being in his prime sporting age and the Impact will harvest great benefits with his presence in front of the net.