It's a 2.5 year deal, running to the end of 2026 MLS season, with an extra one year option also for the 2027 season.
But as with anyone there is an adjustment period, and he's coming in at a tricky time with the MLS season 3/4 over. Only 9 games left before finals. Timbers are 8th in the Western Conference, 1 spot off the playoffs. Every game from now onwards do or die really.
Surman will be match fit after playing plenty of mins in the heat of Vanuatu & France. Helps that MLS doesn't start again until 25th August, so he'll get in a mini pre season before then. That's a bonus. Timbers are in the Leagues Cup Round of 32.
But it's a whole new team, and new league at a level above the ALM. Can see him playing a few reserve team games, mixed in with hopefully being on the bench for Leagues Cup & MLS games. He'll definitely train with the first team squad. That's who he's signed with. Mabiala retiring opens the door a bit, though Mabiala was really out of the first team picture now anyway.
But as with anyone there is an adjustment period, and he's coming in at a tricky time with the MLS season 3/4 over. Only 9 games left before finals. Timbers are 8th in the Western Conference, 1 spot off the playoffs. Every game from now onwards do or die really.
Surman will be match fit after playing plenty of mins in the heat of Vanuatu & France. Helps that MLS doesn't start again until 25th August, so he'll get in a mini pre season before then. That's a bonus. Timbers are in the Leagues Cup Round of 32.
But it's a whole new team, and new league at a level above the ALM. Can see him playing a few reserve team games, mixed in with hopefully being on the bench for Leagues Cup & MLS games. He'll definitely train with the first team squad. That's who he's signed with. Mabiala retiring opens the door a bit, though Mabiala was really out of the first team picture now anyway.