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MLS Colorado Rapids

Rapids Sign Defender John Neeskens

May 14, 2014 - Major League Soccer (MLS)
Colorado Rapids News Release


COMMERCE CITY, Colo. - The Colorado Rapids announced on Wednesday that the club has signed 20-year-old defender John Neeskens, who has been on trial with the club for a month and has already played in several Reserve team matches.

Neeskens, who can play on either side of defense or midfield, as well as in a holding midfield role, has played the previous two seasons in Spain and spent time in F.C. Barcelona's youth setup. Per league and team policy, terms of the contract were not disclosed.

"John is a talented and versatile player who gives us depth in a number of different positions," said Paul Bravo, the Rapids VP of Soccer Operations. "He's been with us for a while, as we sorted out all the paperwork to sign him, and he's proved to be a strong player who fits in well with our group. We're excited to officially welcome him to the squad."

"I am very happy to officially join the Rapids, and I want to thank the club for this opportunity," said Neeskens. "It's great to join a club with so many young players all playing at a high level, and I will be working hard to earn a place on the field. I also want to say thanks to my family and my agent, who have always given me their support and helped me get to this place."

Neeskens comes to the Rapids from Spain, where he most recently played for Segunda B teams CF Badalona in 2013/14 and UE Sant Andreu the previous season. His youth career was spent in the academy setups at Barcelona and Villarreal, where he played in the youth ranks and often trained with the first team.

The son of legendary Dutch player Johan Neeskens, John was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma and has citizenship in the U.S., Spain, and Holland, and will not count as an International Player on the Rapids roster.

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