South African MF Haskins set for Galaxy trial

Mark Haskins, a star midfielder for Moroka Swallows in South Africa's top flight, will be heading to Los Angeles for a tryout with the Galaxy next week, according to a report on South African news site news24.com.

Moroka's season will come to an end this weekend when his Swallows take on Pretoria University in the Nedbank Cup final.

The 28-year-old is familiar with the U.S., having earned a scholarship to Florida Atlantic University in 2000, but has since had to develop his talent in South Africa's top league where he has played with the Swallows for the last four years.

During the '08-09 campaign the midfielder has been a regular fixture in the side, appearing in 26 matches in league play with two goals scored and adding four more matches and two more tallies in Moroka's run to the cup final.

"I am excited about going to L.A. Galaxy," Haskins said. "I have my agent, Ryan Hartslief, to thank for this opportunity which has come late in my career, but I aim to make the most of it and impress Galaxy officials and earn a contract."

Haskins also said that one of the big draws for playing in Los Angeles was having the chance to play for the same team as David Beckham, though it is not yet clear if he will actually get that chance.

"I have always wanted to play overseas. I had hoped one day to play in Europe, but L.A. Galaxy offers me a foot in the door," he said. "I realize this is only a trial and everything is up to me, but just the chance of playing in the same team as Beckham has inspired me."

No official word has yet been released on when Haskins' trial with the Galaxy will actually being or how long he will be with the club before a final decision is made. --Goal.com