AMSTERDAM – Former Mjøndalen defender Rhett Bernstein is back in the States completing his recovery from a nagging groin problem and plotting his next career move, with top flight admirers in both the US and Norway.
The 28-year-old San Diego native, who recently ran out of contract after five seasons with De Brune, says he chose to leave the relegated club to search for a new first-division job.
"That's what I'm working on right now," Bernstein told MLSsoccer.com from his home in California. "I've been in communication with some [MLS and Tippeligaen] clubs."
The center back is not setting any timetable for completing a deal and gave no indication of preferring a landing spot on either side of the Atlantic. His focus is squarely on staying in the big leagues with the best fit available.
"I'm taking my time on this one," said Bernstein. "I want to find the best option. We had a nice run at Mjøndalen, getting promoted and everything, but I want to find a higher level."
Complicating free transfer matters slightly is the groin recovery, which will likely meet its conclusion during training with a new employer. Bernstein, who, despite starting just 13 of 30 games and lining up at center back, led Mjøndalen with five goals, also battled ankle and hamstring problems last season.
However, it was the groin issue that lingered the longest, limiting the defender to just one start in the season's final six games.
"It's not a chronic thing," said Bernstein, who was recently checked out by US national team doctors. "They said I just need rest and to have a good preseason."
