The new regime at Chivas USA continues to clear house.
On Friday, the Goats announced they sent last year's No. 5 overall pick, forward Casey Townsend, to D.C. United in exchange for the team's 2014 natural second-round SuperDraft pick.
The 23-year-old returns to his old stomping grounds, where he starred for the University of Maryland. In his rookie season at Chivas USA, Townsend started in 10 of his 17 appearances with a goal and two assists.
WATCH: Townsend scores for Chivas
“We were quite surprised that Casey was available for a trade and we pounced on it,” said D.C. United general manager Dave Kasper in club statement. “He is an exciting striker who brings a ton of energy to the attack, and we think he will be a great fit with our side. He is very happy to return to the D.C. Metropolitan area and we are equally excited to bring him back.”
Townsend becomes the sixth player to leave the club after José Luis Sánchez Solá (a.k.a. "El Chelís") took over as manager. Legendary forward Juan Pablo Ángel and midfield veteran Peter Vagenas were not brought back after their contracts expired. The club also declined the contract options of long-time MLS players Danny Califf and Alejandro Moreno. Attacking midfielder Nick LaBrocca and now Townsend have been traded.
Chelís also made it clear that Shalrie Joseph, despite being under contract with the club, does not figure in his plans. And Ecuadorean national team midfielder Oswaldo Minda has been linked with a return home.
The question at this point becomes: Who's next?
