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The defensive midfield position has been in flux since Jay Heaps took over as head coach. Shalrie Joseph, Clyde Simms, Kalifa Cisse and Scott Caldwell have all spent time in the spot over the last three years. Andy Dorman has been the most recent applicant and while he has churned out some great performances it might be time to find a full-time defensive midfielder that can take control of the game.
That man might be US national team star Jermaine Jones.
Ives Galarcep recently reported that Jones could be looking to join a MLS team after the World Cup is over. The German-American was originally interesting in making the move stateside last winter, but eventually joined Turkish side Besiktas when no team was willing to meet his salary demands, which was estimated to be approximately $2 million per year.
Jones, who has looked spectacular in Brazil, is now available on a free transfer, which will make him a target of many teams. The Revs should be among those interested in the 32-year-old.
If added, Jones would instantly become the first-choice defensive midfielder, an important position in MLS. Players like Michael Bradley, Kyle Beckerman and Osvaldo Alonso are essential to their team's success. The DM controls the pace of the game and breaks up potential counterattacks while also contributing offensively when possible. Jones could be one of the best defensive midfielders in the league if he ends up in MLS.
Jones would also bring valuable leadership to the Revs. A veteran of the Bundesliga, Jones has played in several high profile games, including those in the Champions League. Furthermore, he has been one of the most important players of the Jurgen Klinsmann era, earning 46 caps and donning the captain's armband on occasion. Jones' experience would greatly help the development of players like Kelyn Rowe, Diego Fagundez and Caldwell.
Of course, Jones would likely demand a hefty designated player salary. This might be an issue since members of the Revolution front office have stated that they would be most drawn to a DP that can help on the field and in the stands.
There is little question that Jones would spark better on-field performances, but it isn't likely that he would move the needle in regards to attendance or media. After the initial interest that a World Cup star would be playing in Gillette Stadium, indifference would become the common feeling. After all, Jones isn't on the same level as David Beckham or Thierry Henry.
There is also the question of if Jones would want to live in New England. In the same article that reports Jones is interested in MLS, Galarcep claims that the player has expressed a desire to reside in Los Angeles. It should be noted, however, that foreign players like Jose Goncalves and Saer Sene have been very positive about living in New England, especially Boston.
As of right now, the idea that Jones will be coming to MLS is nothing more than a rumor. The former Schalke player will certainly be receiving a lot of offers after the World Cup, and he will have to be smart when thinking about the final stage of his career. If there is any truth to the rumors, the Revs should be inquiring about Jones.