Fire Re-Signs Midfielder Dax McCarty
CHICAGO (Jan. 11, 2018) – The Chicago Fire Soccer Club announced Thursday that the club has re-signed Dax McCarty to a two-year contract extension. McCarty is guaranteed through 2019 with a club option for 2020.
“After taking time to reflect on the 2017 season, I’ve come away with a very clear picture of what the future looks like for the Chicago Fire,” McCarty said. “Although the year did not end how any of us would have liked, I believe we’re on course to becoming a perennial contender for trophies like Fire teams of old. Together with the fans, our club can build on the foundation laid last season and now set our sights even higher. I’m excited to be in Chicago long term and am looking forward to getting back on the field soon.”
Originally acquired on Jan. 16, 2017 via trade with the New York Red Bulls, McCarty tallied five assists in 28 regular season matches in his first season with the Fire. For his efforts, he was named a MLS All-Star for the second time in his career, and played the second half of the match against Real Madrid at Soldier Field on Aug. 2.
“Dax has proven himself across MLS as a respected opponent, and we believe his best years remain in front of him,” said Fire general manager Nelson Rodríguez. “Dax is a very important player for us and how we play. Extending his contract is a key piece in our continued efforts to build a championship program.”
A 12-year MLS veteran, McCarty played his 300th career regular season game in a 4-1 win against the San Jose Earthquakes on Sept. 27. In all, the Winter Park, Fla. native has scored 19 goals and added 51 assists in 303 regular season matches, with an additional two goals and one assist in 23 career postseason appearances.
A U.S. Youth International and product of the Under-17 Residency Program, McCarty appeared in all five of the United States’ games in the run to the quarterfinals of the 2007 FIFA U-20 World Cup. McCarty made his senior debut in a friendly against Slovakia on Nov. 14, 2009. McCarty has 13 career caps for the U.S. Men’s National Team, and in 2017 made five appearances during the USMNT’s CONCACAF Gold Cup championship run.
Transaction: Chicago Fire Soccer Club re-signs midfielder Dax McCarty.
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