Ugandan international Brian Umony joins Portland Timbers
Umony secures deal with US club
Posted: 2011-02-21 09:36
Ugandan international Brian Umony left South Africa to start a new career in his football in the American Major Soccer League.
Umony, who is on SuperSport United's books, has been on loan to University of Pretoria. He was in the Tuks' squad that drew 1-1 with Black Leopards on Saturday night. He departed for the US shortly after the game and will be joining Portland Timbers after impressing in a week-long trial there.
Portland Timbers is a new franchise in the MLS. Their coach John Spencer, formerly of Chelsea and Glasgow Rangers, became aware of Umony through his agent Paul Mitchell and former Cranes' coach.
Umony played two games in the US and in the second of these scored against David Beckham's LA Galaxy.
The SuperSport United striker will have to undergo a medical test before he signs on the dotted line with Timbers for a season on loan. The US club has an option to buy him if he continues to impress them.
Battling to hold back tears, the 22-year-old tells KickOff.com that a move abroad was a lifelong dream.
"The trial in the US was good and I enjoyed myself. They gave me two matches and were happy with what I offered. It's a one-year loan deal with a possibility of a buyout," says Umony.
The young striker describes the American League as quick and physical.
"It's going to be tough but I will do my best he says.
Umony's agent Paul Mitchell said that he was delighted for his client.
"He is 22 years old and did well at national level as well as the Champion's League games, so he's got a few years ahead of him," says Mitchell.
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