Revs Decline Noonan Option

I'm not calling it a sinking ship yet, but...

The New England Revolution may be facing a rebuilding year following their fourth MLS Cup loss since 2002. With Taylor Twellman and Shalrie Joseph wanting out, and Andy Dorman having already left, the club has declined to pick up Pat Noonan's option for the 2008 season, effectively making him free to negotiate with teams outside MLS."This is a great opportunity to try to go overseas," Noonan told the Boston Globe.

Noonan, 27, was a key part of the Revs offense in '07, contributing with seven goals and four assists in 27 games (21 starts). In his five-year career, Noonan has amassed 42 goals and 30 assists, and was selected to the 2004 All-Star Game.

"His option was not picked up, but we are in discussions to try to bring him back," Revolution director of soccer Mike Burns told the Globe. "He is obviously someone we want to bring back. He is free to sign outside the league and that is a risk we are well aware of. But we hope he makes the decision to come back to play for the Revolution."

Noonan's hard work has been noticed by USMNT head coach Bob Bradley, resulting in the midfielder's call to the first national team camp of 2008, ahead of Saturday's friendly against Sweden.

Several high-profile MLS players have bolted for Norway in the offseason... could Noonan join them?