Crystal Palace USA have announced the signing of veteran Brazilian player Neto. Fans will have an opportunity to see the 28-year old attacking midfielder play for the first time on October 17th at Loyola University when Palace take on the U.S. U-17 National Team, kickoff 10:30am (free admission).
The 5' 10" playmaker trained extensively with Palace through the summer and is already seen as an integral part of the club's aspirations for the 2010 season and beyond.
"We're delighted to have him at the club," said Palace Sporting Director and Co-Manager, Jim Cherneski. "We've been after him almost since the inception of the club. We think he's of the highest quality and he makes everyone else around him on the field better. He's just a great guy all around, which I think is key."
"Neto is a creative force who will drive the team offensively and is also a consistent threat to score goals," added Pete Medd, the club's President and Co-Manager. "He has the ability to change a game in an instant and is truly a player worth the price of admission. Fans will love his creative flair and on top of that, he works hard and is a good person and role model. We will build the team around him for years to come."
"I'm very excited about playing for Crystal Palace," stated Neto. "I've been trying for three years to be part of this organization and it's finally come through. I'll work hard and do my best to help my team-mates bring the championship to Baltimore next year!"
A native of Itabuna, Brazil, Neto (full name Adauto Neto) began his professional career in the Brazilian top flight with Esporte Club Vitoria from 1995 to 1998. He then moved to the United States to attend the University of Mobile, Alabama, from 1999 to 2001 where he was named an NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics ) Division 1 First Team All-American all three years.
Neto was subsequently picked by the Dallas Burn in the 4th round of the 2002 MLS Superdraft. USL A-League team the Syracuse Salty Dogs signed him for the 2003 season. His next stop was rival USL club, the Rochester Rhinos where he played the in 2004.
Neto has also played indoor soccer, most notably with the Baltimore Blast from 2004 to 2007, garnering League MVP honors for the 2005-2006 season and helping the team win two League Championship titles. He has also played indoors with the Cleveland Force and the New Jersey Ironmen.
