SECACUS, N.J. - The MetroStars today acquired five-time MLS Cup Champion and nine-year MLS veteran Jeff Agoos from the San Jose Earthquakes today in exchange for a 4th round pick in the 2005 MLS SuperDraft. In addition to his MLS experience, Agoos has amassed 134 caps with the U.S. National Team, including playing in the historic 2002 FIFA World Cup.
"We're delighted that we were able to acquire Jeff," said MetroStars President and General Manager Nick Sakiewicz. "We feel that his experience, leadership and qualities as a soccer player and a person are things that our team needs to become better."
Agoos began his career with D.C. United in 1996 leading them to the inaugural MLS Cup Championship and the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup title. He continued to prove himself through the next four years with D.C. United, helping them win two more championships while being named to the MLS Best XI twice. In 2001, Agoos was traded to the San Jose Earthquakes, and although plagued by an injury in 2002, the native of Switzerland contributed to the success of the Earthquakes as they captured two MLS Cup titles in three years (2001, 2003). Last year Agoos started 24 games and registered a goal and four assists with the San Jose Earthquakes as the club qualified for the MLS Cup Playoffs for the fourth consecutive season.
On the international stage, Agoos has had one of the most storied careers in U.S. Soccer history. He has been a member of the U.S. National Team since 1985, garnering 134 caps with the team. His last appearance came on May 26, 2003, when he wore the captain's armband, in a 2-0 defeat of Wales at Spartan Stadium in San Jose. He appeared in three games for the U.S. in the 2002 FIFA World Cup before suffering a calf injury, forcing him to sit out the rest of the competition. In addition to his senior national team experience, Agoos also played with the Under-15, Under-17 and Under-20 teams.
As a result of the trade, the MetroStars are left with one remaining draft pick (5th round, 54th overall) in the 2005 MLS SuperDraft.
