The long rumored return of Kenny Cooper to MLS is now official. The Portland Timbers have announced the signing of the former FC Dallas forward, who has made 11 appearances and scored five goals for the United States Men's National Team. Terms of the deal were not released, but we have been able to confirm that he was not signed as a Designated Player, meaning he's almost certainly making less than $335,000 a year.
Kenny Cooper, Portland Timbers Officially Agree On Deal
“The addition of Kenny is a great signing for the organization,” Timbers general manager Gavin Wilkinson said in a team release. “His experience in both the league and abroad bolsters our frontline and adds a proven MLS goal scorer to our roster.”
Prior to going to 2. Bundesliga side 1860 Munich in 2009, Cooper was one of the top goal-scorers in MLS. He scored 40 goals in 90 matches over four seasons with FC Dallas. His best season was in 2008 when he scored 18 goals, was named to the MLS Best XI and made the MLS All-Star team.
Since FC Dallas was compensated when he transferred, Cooper went through the Allocation process when he decided to return to MLS. The Timbers had the top spot in the Allocation Order as the Vancouver Whitecaps had previously used the top spot to claim Jay Demerit. DC United now sits atop the allocation order, which is now in the reverse order of last year's finish. MLS Cup champion Colorado Rapids have the No. 16 spot, now followed by the Whitecaps and Timbers.
“I am really excited to be returning to MLS and joining the Portland Timbers for their inaugural MLS season,” Cooper said in a team release. “It is a great privilege to come to Portland, where there is a long-standing tradition and a deep passion for the team and the game.
“I am looking forward to wearing Timbers green, and I hope to make the Timbers Army and all those associated with the club proud.”
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