The following are press releases from Major League Soccer --
WASHINGTON, DC (Jan 7, 2009) MLS -- DC United announced today the club has re-signed defender Marc Burch. In his first full season with the Black-and-Red, the 24-year-old made 28 League appearances (21 starts) along United’s backline. Burch was originally acquired by DC from the Columbus Crew on April 4, 2007 for a 2008 Supplemental Draft pick. Per team and League policy, terms of the new agreement were not released.
“We are pleased to have re-signed Marc to a new deal,” said United General Manager Dave Kasper. “He has adapted well to playing in our defense and has become an important player for us. We look forward to his future contributions to our club.”
In all competitions during the 2008 campaign, Burch played in 44 games (35 starts), collecting two goals and four assists. In U.S. Open Cup play, the defender scored two free kick goals in United’s 2-0 third round win over the Rochester Rhinos on 7/1.
Burch’s debut in Major League Soccer came after he was selected in the 2006 MLS SuperDraft by the LA Galaxy. He made three appearances as a substitute for LA before being traded to the Columbus Crew in July of 2006. With the Crew, Burch made seven appearances (five starts) and tallied one assist. The Maryland grad was then traded to United, where he took over the left back spot and collected three assists in 18 appearances (15 starts).
SECAUCUS, NJ (Jan 7, 2009) MLS -- Red Bull New York announced today that defender Carlos Mendes has signed a new contract with Major League Soccer and will be part of the Red Bulls' roster in 2009. Per MLS and club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.
"During his time with New York, Carlos has proven himself to be a sound defensive player," said Red Bull New York Sporting Director Jeff Agoos. "He brings stability and versatility to our lineup and his contributions to the team extend beyond his performance on the field. We are excited that we were able to come to terms with Carlos and look forward to his contribution in 2009."
Mendes was originally signed to the club’s senior roster on March 21, 2005, and has appeared in 95 matches for the club, making 81 starts over four seasons. He is coming off a 2008 campaign in which he played in 17 matches, making 10 starts. Mendes came off the bench in the team’s series clinching win over the Houston Dynamo in the Western Conference Semifinals, and started the Western Conference Championship and MLS Cup Finals matches in central defense.
