Impact's youth movement gets off-season boost
Kamal Miller is happy to be back in Canada as part of the Impact's youth-driven rebuilding program.
“I knew there was a chance of moving somewhere in this expansion draft and, when I heard that Montreal was interested, I was extremely happy for myself and my family,” the Toronto native said.
“(I'll) be closer to home and play for a team that I've followed since they were integrated into the league. I have a lot of friends who have gone through the club and I've heard a lot of amazing things about the team.”
Miller, 23, a centre back, was acquired from Austin FC shortly after he was selected from Orlando City SC in Tuesday's MLS expansion draft.
The Impact gave up a total of US$275,000 and the 11th overall pick in next month's MLS SuperDraft.
Miller played 28 games over two seasons in Orlando as well as two playoff matches. He also has made five appearances with Canada's national team, including four as a starter.
Miller battled more experienced international players for playing time this past season and he's looking forward to having a larger role in Montreal, where he will be joining national teammates Samuel Piette and Zachary Brault- Guillard.
“I've had conversations with (national team coach John Herdman) throughout the year about my future and finding a home for me where I would be in better contention for playing time.”
Over the years, Miller has talked to friends and national team members about playing for one of the three MLS teams in Canada and he said he's looking forward to the experience.
“A personal dream of mine has always been to push the game of soccer in Canada. And if I can contribute to Montreal's success in the U.S. and in CONCACAF Champions League, it will be very special,” said Miller.
Miller described himself as a versatile player who fits anywhere along the back line.
He played principally as a centre as a conference all-star at Syracuse University, but has been employed as a left back in MLS and with the national team.
The Impact has only six players older than 25 on its current roster and the youth movement continued Thursday when the team acquired 22-year-old midfielder Djordje Mihailovic from the Chicago Fire. The Impact gave up a total of US$1 million in general allocation money over the next two years.
Mihailovic has made 73 appearances for the Fire with 45 starts. He has seven goals and 15 assists in MLS play. He has also played six games for the U.S. national team and scored a goal in a friendly against Panama.
“We're really happy with the acquisition of this young American international player that fits in our sporting project,” said Impact sporting director Olivier Renard. “We add a creative and versatile player in the attacking department.”