The New England Revolution announced today that Panama national team midfielder/forward Ricardo Phillips has joined the club on loan from Tauro F.C. of Panama through the remainder of the 2005 season as a Senior International. The Revolution has the option of acquiring Phillips rights permanently following the 2005 season.
Known as a speedy, skillful and determined player, Phillips is now on the Revolution roster and available to play. Per MLS and team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.
"Ricardo Phillips adds a dynamic element to the way we play," said Revolution head coach Steve Nicol. "Ricardo is the type of player who can change a game with his energy and creativity. We like what we've seen of him with Panama and believe he will fit in well with our current group of players."
The attacking midfield player has won two professional Torneo ANAPROF championships in his native Panama, one with Panama Viejo (2000) and one with his most recent club, Tauro F.C. (2003). Phillips also has international club experience, having competed in the CONCACAF Champions Cup with Tauro F.C. in 2004.
Phillips was an integral part of the underdog Panama squad that made a surprisingly strong run in the 2005 CONCACAF Gold Cup last month, eventually losing to the United States on penalties in the final. Phillips scored two goals in the Gold Cup, tying him for sixth in that category for the tournament. He also started Panama's World Cup qualifying matches against Costa Rica and Mexico this month.
The Revolution also announced that the team has acquired a conditional pick in 2006 MLS SuperDraft and a natural 3rd Round pick in 2007 MLS SuperDraft-both from CD Chivas USA-in exchange for salary budget considerations.
The first-place New England Revolution (14-5-6, 48 pts.) returns home this weekend to host Eastern Conference opponents the Columbus Crew (9-12-3, 30 pts.) at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, September 10 at Gillette Stadium. Saturday night's match will be broadcast on WB56 and can be heard on WEEI 850 AM, as well as streaming live on revolutionsoccer.net. On Saturday night the Revolution will also host Military Appreciation Night. In recognition of their service, all U.S. Armed Forces personnel will receive a free ticket to the game. In addition, family and friends of all service men and women can purchase discounted tickets. For ticket information, call 1-877-GET-REVS.
