MONTREAL — It was a move to make a move.
Within minutes of selecting Seattle’s James Riley in the Expansion Draft, the Montreal Impact traded the right back to Chivas USA in exchange for forward Justin Braun and midfielder Gerson Mayen.
WATCH: Braun and Mayen
Montreal also gave up some allocation money.
The trade strengthens both sides. Chivas USA get an experienced right back to replace the young Zarek Valentin, who was likewise selected by the Impact. Riley, 29, has made 179 appearances in his seven-year career, which started with New England in 2005. He spent 2008 with San Jose before being selected in the expansion draft to join the Sounders for the 2009 season.
Montreal acquire two players who can contribute immediately. Braun, 24, is a tall and active targetman who has shown a knack for scoring timely goals. He scored 24 goals and posted 12 assists in four seasons with the Goats, including 8 goals and 5 assists in 2011.
Mayen, 22, has seen less playing time, making only 20 appearances in four seasons in MLS, all with Chivas. However, he has shown flashes of potential in posting 5 assists in his career, and had a successful 2011 season on loan with the Ft. Lauderdale Strikers in the second division.
