Revolution Sign Midfielder Gabe Latigue

The New England Revolution announced the signing of Supplemental Draft selection Gabe Latigue. Latigue, a wide midfielder with deceptively dangerous dead-ball skills, was the Revs' final pick in the draft after a stellar career creating chances for NCAA leading scorer Chris Thomas at Elon University.

"Gabe did well for himself during preseason training and earned his spot on our roster," Revolution General Manager Michael Burns said. "He has shown he can fit in on either side of the midfield and has talent on set pieces. We're looking forward to working with him further this season."

After entering camp in competition with six other unsigned rookies, Latigue managed to distinguish himself from the pack with his speed, ball skills, and drive to succeed. He also played well in preseason, where his set-piece talents were most on display.

Making the roster is only step one for the young winger. Latigue is a prime candidate for being loaned to Rochester, so he'll have to use the playing time he earns there to prove to the coaching staff that he belongs in MLS. Of course, that's a step up from what would have been his future if this were 2012: a smattering of useless reserve matches and long, lonely weeks without any competitive soccer.

This move brings the Revolution roster count up to 29. Barring an unusual development, expect them to stay there for the time being. The Revs also have an international slot available, and have already signaled their intent to fill that slot with a forward. Marko Jesic looked to have earned himself a spot in preseason, but with no word having gotten out on him recently it seems as though he's not in the team's plans, so that roster spot probably won't be filled until after First Kick.