Michael Parkhurst the next American to join Fulham?

It felt a bit like an American Derby in the English Premier League when Fulham and Reading met up in the English Premier League this weekend. Clint Dempsey got one past his compatriot Marcus Hahnemann to help lift Fulham to a 3-1 home victory. Fulham is, of course, no stranger to employing Americans. Dempsey, Carlos Bocanegra, Kasey Keller and Brian McBride are all on the roster. The rumors are that another American might be on the way.

Ok, so the rumors are little more than this entirely unconfirmed little blurb, but it doesn’t stretch the imagination that it could be true:

Fulham boss Lawrie Sanchez is ready to add to his growing American contingent with a move for New England Revolution centre – half Mike Parkhurst.

The highly – rated Parkhurst, 23, is all set for a switch to Craven Cottage to join compatriots Clint Dempsey, Brian McBride, Carlos Bocanegra and Kasey Keller.

Parkhurst has really made a name for himself this season with the Revs. He captured the league’s Fair Play Award by committing just five fouls in 25 games, a remarkable number for a central defender. Most clubs aren’t too concerned with fair play, however, so it is Parkhurst’s play and his potential that is the real attraction. He was named MLS Defender of the Year earlier today.

In addition to having above average physical skills, Parkhurst is a heady player who seemingly never gets caught out of position. He is also just 23 years old and he should be able to gain a work visa in England easily since his father is Irish and he holds an Irish passport.

The question is how much will the Revolution ask for him? He is a vital part of their club and if they hold onto for another year or so they might be able to get a higher price. After letting Dempsey head to Fulham for $4 million, the Revs held on to Shalrie Joseph despite being offered $1 million plus from Celtic for his services. Will Parkhurst command similar type numbers and will the Revolution be willing to part with him?

What do you think?

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Category: English Premier League, MLS, World Football