Revolution Transfers 2016: Je-Vaughn Watson praised by Heaps

You know you’re doing something right when a coach praises you and you aren’t even a rostered player.

Following the New England Revolution’s 1-0 win over Columbus Crew SC in the Desert Diamond Cup Final, head coach Jay Heaps was asked to name his "pleasant surprise" from the game.

The first player identified, Teal Bunbury, was to be predicted as the seven-year veteran scored the game-winner and was named as the tournament MVP. The second player, however, was a bit more unexpected.

"We had Je-Vaughn Watson in camp," Heaps noted to local media. "I thought he had a great night tonight. He just joined us on Wednesday and he was excellent, for me."

Watson, who became available after mutually parting ways with FC Dallas, played his first minutes in Revolution colors on Saturday. The 32-year-old contributed 63 minutes at right back before being replaced by London Woodberry.

With the regular season one week away, time will tell whether Watson will join the Revolution. One thing that will slightly complicate negotiations is the fact that FC Dallas still hold Watson’s MLS rights, according to Washington Post reporter Steven Goff. This means that the Revs will likely have to give something up in order to acquire the Jamaican.