Los Angeles Galaxy defender Sean Franklin was
named Major League Soccer's Rookie of the Year on Thursday.
Franklin, 23, started 26 out of 27 matches and recorded one assist. He was the
Galaxys first pick - fourth overall - in the 2008 MLS SuperDraft. He is the
first Galaxy player to win Rookie of the Year honors.
Franklin was a consistent presence on the field, logging 2,385 minutes, second
on L.A. to defender Chris Klein. Showing positional sense and poise beyond his
years, Franklin used an aggressive but clean style of play, committing just 22
fouls and receiving just three cautions during the season.
The Galaxy also named Franklin their team defender of the year. He has received
praise from coach Bruce Arena for his growth as a player throughout the season.
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