Sounders Preseason Begins Without Freddie Ljungberg

Seattle Sounders FC’s preseason training camp kicked off on Monday as rumors surrounding the future of the club’s two brightest stars continued to swirl. Colombian forward Fredy Montero, who has been linked with a move to Russia or Turkey in the last week, was in attendance at the Starfire Sports Complex and sounded happy to be back. But Swedish midfielder and Designated Player Freddie Ljungberg was a no-show, fueling speculation that he is seeking a transfer back to Europe before the close of the transfer window on January 31st.

“We talk with Freddie and his representation every day. It’s a very close contact,” said Sounders general manager Adrian Hanauer. “It’s a concern, the CBA negotiation to him. We are also extremely hopefully that we’re getting close to having this indecision and conversation come to a head. The transfer window in Europe closes on January 31st, so one way or another, this is going to be settled in the next few days. We’re extremely hopeful. We miss Freddie and we want him back here and we’re hopeful he’ll be back in the next few days.

“Should there be the right opportunity for Freddie and for the club in light of the current situation, we have to be open to all options.”

Ljungberg, who has been connected with moves to Serie A or back to the English Premier League over the offseason, recently wrote on his website of the interest being shown by overseas clubs and also of his concern over a potential lockout affecting the upcoming MLS season.

“During the winter there has been some reports in media about teams in Europe asking for my service, and as a player it is always an honor when top teams are interested and evidently this shows that MLS these days is a very reputable league.

“I have not made any final decision about the spring as a lot depends on the outcome of the new CBA and lockout threat in MLS.”

While team officials sounded as if they expected Ljungberg’s no-show on Monday, Sounders captain and U.S. former international goalkeeper Kasey Keller was apparently less than pleased with the Designated Player’s decision.

“I don’t know the full story. I’m a player, I’m not in management,” said Keller. “I think when you’re under contract, you’re supposed to be for the team that holds your contract. And if something gets worked out, it has to be worked out with the club that holds your contract. You don’t as a player get your choice to say what you’re going to do and how you’re going to do it.

“I want the players on this team who want to be here. If Freddie wants to be here and wants to be fully committed, then sure. If he doesn’t, it’s more of a distraction than a benefit. That’s how I am. I’d much rather have a guy with less talent that wants to be here than a guy with great talent who doesn’t.”