Major League Soccer announced this morning that LA Galaxy defender Jelle Van Damme has been nominated as Defender of the Year and Newcomer of the Year, and Gyasi Zardes is also a finalist for the MLS Works Humanitarian of the Year.
It’s no surprise the big Belgian is up for Defender of the Year. Van Damme led an experienced backline that gave up just 39 goals, tied for third-fewest in the league. A spark plug capable of jump starting the Galaxy attack with his swashbuckling runs and pinpoint passing, JVD has chipped in five assists this season, including Sunday’s beauty.