Fred heads down under [kind of]
11/14/2008 9:05 AM by Kyle Sheldon
We got word last night that Fred is heading to Australia New Zealand for a short-term loan with the Hyundai A-League's Wellington FC Phoenix. Per the A-League's loan policy, the Brazilian midfielder will be eligible to play six games for the Phoenix, beginning as early as their game Sunday evening.
Fred, of course, previously played a season in the A-League, leading the Melbourne Victory to the 2006-07 championship, before making his way to the District of Columbia.
The Phoenix currently sit in sixth place in the eight-team A-League with a record of 3-5-3, but have only scored ten goals - fewest in the league. With 10 games to be played, Wellington must move up in the standings to make the post-season, as only the top four teams advance. Check back, as we'll periodically keep you up-to-date on Fred's contributions.
What do you think about the loan? Is it a good move for Fred to stay sharp during the off-season?
UPDATE: By the way, I should clarify that though Fred will be playing in the A-League, the Phoenix are actually located in New Zealand - and are the lone team not based in Australia (think of them as the Toronto FC of the A-League). So, technically, Fred is only heading "down under" when his team plays away from home. Special thanks to our resident Australian, Matt Skinner, for correcting me. I suck at geography.
Comments
5 Comments
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11/14/2008 10:46 AM by dubVman
Staying sharp is good, but is the chance of him getting injured worth the risk? Besides, its just the A-League.
11/15/2008 1:43 PM by stewartdc8
Doesn't he want a break?
If he wants to stay in shape, more power to him, just don't come back exhausted!
One of my favorite players.
11/15/2008 2:29 PM by dogboy
I think it's a good move. It'll keep him in game shape and he'll be ready for the season to come.
Even though it is "just the A-league" nothing can replace playing in actual games, with fitness etc. And plus, it might give him a chance to work on new things.... :)
11/16/2008 7:57 PM by Red&BlackAttack
I'm fine with it as long as he doesn't get hurt. Stay healthy, Fred! We need you for next year.
In unrelated news - I saw the Holiday 4-Pack is on offer on the main dcunited.com page. Kyle, is there any chance that the amazingly awesome looking scarf from that pack will be available as a stand-alone purchase for those of us who are getting regular full or half season ticket packages and thus do not want the 4-pack?
11/17/2008 11:12 AM by keltick
Agreed on the scarf. That is awesome. Hopefully, we will see it on the new webstore..