VANCOUVER, BC – Vancouver Whitecaps FC announced today that the club has acquired general allocation money and targeted allocation money from New England Revolution in exchange for midfielder Gershon Koffie. As part of the trade, Whitecaps FC will receive a percentage of any future transfer fees obtained by New England.
"It's never easy parting ways with a player like Gersh, someone I admire greatly," said Whitecaps FC head coach Carl Robinson. "From the first day I met Gersh in 2011 until today we have had a fantastic relationship, and that will continue as he continues his football development. I consider him a friend."
Koffie was originally acquired by Whitecaps FC from Ghana Premier League side International Allies F.C. in September 2010, spending one season in the USSF Division 2 Professional League before moving up with the 'Caps to MLS in 2011. He departs as the club's all-time leader in MLS play with 120 starts and 137 appearances, including playoffs, and is one of only two players to have played more than 10,000 minutes in MLS competition while donning the Blue and White.
“Gersh has been a big part of the club's transition into MLS and the success we've had so far,” added Whitecaps FC president Bob Lenarduzzi. “It has been a pleasure to see him grow and mature since arriving in Vancouver as a 19-year-old. We are thankful for Gersh's contributions to this club and city, and wish him the best in New England.”
In the club's first five seasons in MLS, the Koforidua, Ghana native recorded nine goals and seven assists in 133 regular season appearances, and is one of two players to start in each of the team's four MLS Cup Playoffs matches.
"Words cannot explain my love for Vancouver,” said Koffie. “Vancouver has a room in my heart and it owns the key. I am thankful for all the time and support the fans, my teammates, coaches, support staff, and front office have provided over the last five plus years. I understand that this is a business and this move will make me stronger, will help me grow as a player and as a person. I am ready to embrace this new challenge and look forward to this new opportunity. I love you Vancouver.”
This past season, Koffie helped Whitecaps FC capture the club's first ever Voyageurs Cup, starting three of his four appearances and scoring one goal on the way to winning the 2015 Amway Canadian Championship. In total, Koffie started 12 of his 13 Canadian Championship appearances with Whitecaps FC. In CONCACAF Champions League, Koffie made one substitute appearance in the final group stage match during the 2015-16 tournament.
Whitecaps FC kick off the 2016 MLS regular season when they host Montreal Impact at BC Place on Sunday, March 6.
TRANSACTION: Vancouver Whitecaps FC acquire general allocation money and targeted allocation money from New England Revolution in exchange for midfielder Gershon Koffie. As part of the trade, Whitecaps FC will receive a percentage of any future transfer fees obtained by New England.
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