TUKWILA, Wash. — Major League Soccer named Seattle Sounders midfielder Nicolas Lodeiro the 2016 Newcomer of the Year on Monday, but he was quick to deflect the praise.
“I didn’t expect [this award],” said Lodeiro through a translator. “I wanted do what I could to help the team, but I am surprised and very happy to be where I am.”
The Uruguayan Designated Player edged Columbus Crew SC’s Ola Kamara and the LA Galaxy’s Jelle Van Damme to take home the honor.
Lodeiro played in just 13 regular-season games, but scored four goals and added eight assists.