It is a curious move when MLS’ best sign a much-maligned, oft-criticised, seemingly-past-their-best nowhere man who the fans were more than happy to see leave.
But that is precisely what happened when MLS Cup-winning Atlanta United signed former Vancouver Whitecaps winger Brek Shea to a one-year deal earlier this offseason.
Shea is far from the star that he was in 2011 and the Vancouver faithful were highly critical of him last season, many of them laughing when Atlanta, a seemingly well-run, intelligent club came calling this winter. But there is reason for the move.