LA Galaxy, Robbie Rogers agree to multi-year extension

Defender Robbie Rogers has signed a multi-year contract extension with the LA Galaxy, the team announced today.

Rogers, the first acknowledged openly gay male athlete to play for MLS, joined the Galaxy in May 2013 after playing in England with Leeds. He has made 30 appearances and 22 starts during his time in Los Angeles.

A MLS and U.S. men's national team veteran, Rogers has appeared in 15 games this season for the Galaxy, recording two assists. Since Rogers committed to defense as a left back in June, the team has gone 10-2-7 in the league competitions in which he has appeared, including MLS Cup playoffs.

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"We are excited that Robbie will remain a part of our organization going forward," Galaxy head coach and General Manager Bruce Arena said. "He has proven to be a dynamic player in our League and an integral part of our success this year. We look forward to his continued contributions in the years to come."

Rogers joined MLS with the Columbus Crew in 2007. He made over 100 appearances for the Crew, scoring 13 goals and recording 16 assists, leading the club to four MLS Playoffs berths in his five seasons, including an MLS Cup in 2008.

He made his debut with the men's national team in 2009, and has earned 18 caps for the team while appearing in two CONCACAF Gold Cup tournaments FIFA World Cup qualifying matches.

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Rogers has been enthusiastic about his new role in the team's backfield.

"I love it. I feel very comfortable," Rogers said. "I hope I can play there the rest of my career."

His performance has helped the Galaxy reach Major League Soccer's Western Conference finals. Game one of the two-leg finals series against the Seattle Sounders will take place on Nov. 23 in Los Angeles; game two will follow on Nov. 30 in Seattle.

- Christopher Woody