Conor Doyle will not be playing for the Colorado Rapids after all.
The Derby County forward, who had been training with Colorado in recent weeks in the hopes of reaching a deal to play for the club on loan, was instead acquired by D.C. United via a lottery conducted on Thursday morning.
As a US youth international, league rules required Doyle to be made available to all MLS teams via a lottery, which was won by United. Currently owners of the league's worst record at 2-13-4, United could use the attacking help with only eight goals scored in their 19 matches played thus far.
“Conor is another quality young talent who has advanced international soccer experience for his age,” D.C. United GM Dave Kasper said in a club statement. “This loan will allow us to take a close look at him with an eye on the future. We look forward to Conor’s arrival in D.C. and to integrating him among our strong core group of up-and-coming players.”
The 21-year-old Doyle is a former US Under-20 player and also made an appearance for the US Olympic team. He signed with Derby County after one year at Creighton University and he's made 23 appearances in three seasons with the English side.
Derby manager Nigel Clough sought the MLS loan deal for Doyle in the hopes the youngster can gain more playing time and experience. The Rapids were his first choice since Colorado president Tim Hinchey worked for Derby County before joining the MLS club.
