Jermaine Jones isn't sure what the future holds, but he would prefer to stay in New England.
The 34-year-old midfielder made headlines when he signed with the New England Revolution during the summer of 2014. The US international made an immediate impact, helping the Revs book a trip to the MLS Cup Final for the first time since 2007. After the team was bested by the L.A. Galaxy, attention optimistically shifted towards 2015 when Jones would have a full season with the Revs.
Unfortunately the defensive midfielder missed long periods of time due to two separate sports hernia surgeries. Jones ultimately finished the season with no goals or assists, a far cry from the three goals and six assists he amassed in all of 2015.
With his initial 18-month MLS contract ready to expire, Jones' status with the Revs is in limbo. The Designated Player does hope to return, but only if the conditions are right.
"I'm open for everything," Jones told ESPNFC. "I would prefer, of course, what I know. I played already [in New England], I was the captain. I would prefer to go back to New England. But it's not always what you prefer. It's the whole package. That package has to be the perfect one."
One thing that Jones will be looking for is a city that fits the needs of his family. A dedicated father and husband, Jones spent the last year-and-a-half traveling between Massachusetts and California. Jones is ready to put an end to the constant commuting, even expressing a willingness to relocate his family.
"My family came over to visit me in Boston," Jones said. "For me, it was really good and really important to see that they like it."
In order to move his family, Jones is looking for a long-term deal, telling NESoccerToday.com that he's hoping to have a permanent home through 2018. This doesn't necessarily mean he will remain in New England or even MLS as Jones has fielded offers from clubs around the world.
"In soccer and sports, we don’t always stay where we like the people, so I don’t know," Jones said. "I have some offers not only from MLS, but Brazil and Europe, too. So, we will go into that with the family and then decide."