New York, NY (Sports Network) - Seattle Sounders FC forward Eddie Johnson was
named the 2012 MLS Comeback Player of the Year on Tuesday.
Johnson, 28, returned to MLS following a lackluster stint in Europe and had 14
goals and three assists in 28 games with Seattle. He previously played in MLS
with Dallas and Kansas City from 2001-07.
Signed by Fulham in 2008, Johnson struggled with the English club and went out
on loan to Cardiff City and Preston North End in England and Aris in Greece in
his time in Europe.
"I would like (to thank) the entire Sounders organization for giving me this
opportunity in Seattle," said Johnson. "This was a fun and exciting year and I
share this award with my coaches and teammates for pushing me to be the best
player I can be."
D.C. United attacker Chris Pontius was second in the final voting and San Jose
Earthquakes forward Alan Gordon was third.
Johnson's resurgence also earned him a return to the U.S. national team, where
he scored twice against Antigua and Barbuda to help his country reach the last
stage of CONCACAF World Cup qualifying.
He was also named Comeback Player of the Year in 2007, when he scored 15 goals
for Kansas City after having just two goals the previous season.
The award was voted on by media, MLS players and MLS club management based on
regular season performance.
The Sports Network