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MLS FC Dallas

Dallas Burn Sign Finnish Midfielder Simo Valakari

March 2, 2004 - Major League Soccer (MLS)
FC Dallas News Release


DALLAS - The Dallas Burn announced today that the team has signed midfielder Simo Valakari. Valakari, 30, has a wealth of playing experience, both with the National Team of Finland as well as with clubs in Scotland, Finland and England. To acquire Valakari, the Burn used Major League Soccer's Discovery process, meaning the team still has one major player allocation in its possession. Valakari will join the team in Spain this evening, have his physical and is expected to join the team in training immediately thereafter.

"Since the end of last season, we have been searching for an experienced central midfielder who will organize the center of the park and allow our other midfielders to get forward and create," said Burn Head Coach Colin Clarke. "Simo has played at both the top international and club levels, and will bring a great deal of leadership to the team. He is a complete professional in his approach to the game and in his play."

Valakari has spent the last four years with Derby County in England, with the first two years in the Premiership and the last two seasons in the First Division. In his four years at Derby, he played in 46 matches and scored three goals.

Prior to joining Derby, Valakari played for Motherwell in the Scottish Premier Division from 1996-2000. In his four years with Motherwell, he played in 103 matches. Valakari began his professional career with MyPa in Finland, playing in 48 matches and netting five goals.

Valakari has 32 caps with the Finland National Team, making his debut on April 30, 1995. His most recent appearance with the national side was in a 2-1 victory over Azberjian on September 6, 2003 in a Euro 2004 qualifying match.

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