When Robbie Russell decided it was time to return to the United States after spending seven years playing soccer in Europe, he wasn't looking for any run-of-the mill club to join.
Russell wanted to be with a team that was forward-thinking. He wanted to be involved building a solid foundation for the future more than latching onto a win-now mentality.
With Real Salt Lake, Russell thinks he has found exactly what he was looking for.
"I really feel like this is a place where the management and coaches have a specific goal in mind," Russell said. "In my experience with clubs in Europe, that's usually the teams that do the best -- teams that have plans."
RSL acquired the U.S. midfielder from Viborg FF of the Danish Superliga last Wednesday, one week into the international transfer window. Russell spent seven seasons in Norway and Denmark after being drafted 22nd overall by the Los Angeles Galaxy in the 2001 MLS SuperDraft.
RSL's newest acquisition arrived in Utah last week and took part in his first training session last Friday. He made his debut against Toronto FC at Rice-Eccles Stadium on Monday, coming on as a 73rd-minute substitute.
Just how many minutes Russell plays and which spot he will play from on the field remains to be seen. But there is no doubt he can work his way into the rotation, given that he already possesses many qualities head coach Jason Kreis is looking for in an RSL player.
"He's athletic, he's versatile, he'll play several positions for us," Kreis said. "It's always nice to have players like that to give you options and choices in tactics."
Versatility will make Russell a major asset in putting together different lineups. During his time in Europe, Russell played major minutes at defensive midfield and right back.
With RSL, he should add some needed depth to the midfield -- an area that had become thinner than it was when the season got underway with the trade of Carey Talley and the midseason departure of Matias Cordoba.
"Anytime you get a new player that can help your team, it's exciting," midfielder Dema Kovalenko said. "It's good for the team. The coaches definitely think he can help us. We welcome him. It's good to have him."
Russell should make an impact with his new club eventually, but it could take a week or two to shake off enough rust before he sees substantial playing time. His last competitive soccer match, in Denmark, was two months ago.
Russell is happy to fill whatever role is required of him. He said he doesn't need a certain amount of minutes to keep him happy. And he feels like he can come in and help RSL in a multitude of ways.
"I see it as a plus that I can fill multiple spots," Russell said. "Any way I can help the team, I up for it."
If he can find a niche with RSL, Russell should be anchor for several seasons to come. The former Duke University product wanted to return to from Europe once he found the right situation.
Now that he is in Utah, he aims to get his game back to an elite level that will appeal to the U.S. national team. Russell figures he has from three to six good seasons still ahead of him and he hopes his time with RSL will allow him make the most of those remaining years.
"It's a perfect time (to return)," Russell said. "It gives me a chance to try and get back on the national team. Take a nice run at some of those goals I've set for myself."
John Coon is a contributor to MLSnet.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Soccer or its clubs.
