Blanco In For '09

The following is a press release from Major League Soccer --

BRIDGEVIEW, IL (Jan 9, 2009) MLS -- Chicago Fire Soccer announced today that the club has picked up their option for midfielder Cuauhtémoc Blanco for the 2009 season.  Terms of the contract will not be disclosed.

Blanco signed with the Fire as the team’s first Designated Player in April of 2007 and joined the team in July after competing in Gold Cup and Copa America with the Mexican National Team. Blanco has contributed 11 goals and 18 assists through 41 games played.

“I’m excited to be back next season,” said Blanco.  “As I’ve always said, I’m very happy in Chicago and I look forward to another year with my teammates.  I’m optimistic about 2009 and will continue to work hard to bring a championship to our fans.”

“Cuauhtémoc is a player that has competed at every level of the game and brings experience and leadership to the team.  His abilities on the field make him an exciting player for fans to watch and we look forward to having him in 2009,” said Chicago Fire Technical Director Frank Klopas.