Welcome Back: LA Galaxy acquire Donovan Ricketts in trade with Orlando City
The LA Galaxy have completed a trade with Orlando City for goalkeeper Donovan Ricketts, the latter confirmed Thursday. In exchange, Orlando acquires a second round draft pick in the 2016 MLS SuperDraft.
Ricketts, 38, joins the LA Galaxy for a second time after spending three seasons with the reigning MLS champions from 2009 to 2011.
Orlando trades Donovan Ricketts to Galaxy for a 2nd round pick in 2016 SuperDraft. Details: http://t.co/zOmMmxxTN5 pic.twitter.com/jeLrtAe5rI
— Orlando City SC (@OrlandoCitySC) July 30, 2015
The Galaxy needed a goalkeeper after suddenly parting ways with Panamanian shot-stopper Jaime Penedo earlier this week. Head coach Bruce Arena looked for an immediate replacement and settled on the experienced and familiar hands of Ricketts.
"Donovan is one of the most experienced and successful goalkeepers in MLS," Arena told the Galaxy's official website. "He is familiar with our team and has proven to be a player capable of winning championships. We are happy that he is once again a member of the LA Galaxy and look forward to his contributions to our club."
Ricketts was sent to Orlando City after being selected first overall in the 2015 MLS Expansion Draft from the Portland Timbers. He started 10 matches in 2015, including Orlando's league debut against New York City FC on March 8, but was relegated to the bench after the return of Tally Hall from an ACL injury.
"Donovan became an important part of the history of Orlando City," Paul McDonough, general manager of Orlando, told the Lions' official website.
"We are very grateful for his contributions to the Lions – both on the pitch and in the community – and we are glad we can facilitate his desire to return to Los Angeles to continue his career. We wish Donovan the very best in the future."