Staying Put: Landon Donovan Says He's Not Leaving Los Angeles
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Tuesday, 16 November 2010 00:06

Los Angeles Galaxy captain and American international Landon Donovan has reiterated that he will not leave the MLS club and will be back next season.

Donovan's Galaxy fell at home 3-0 to FC Dallas in the Western Conference Final of the MLS Cup Playoffs on Sunday night, ending Los Angeles' hopes of a third title.

It has been a busy year for the 28 year old: He went on loan to English side Everton from January to March. In that time, Donovan became the biggest American sensation in soccer, if he was not already.

He scored twice in ten matches for the Toffees and was a critical part of the squad as they defeated Chelsea and Manchester United and drew Arsenal in his time there.

After returning in time for MLS, Donovan helped the Galaxy get off to a start of 7-0-1. During that time, Donovan recorded a goal and eight assists.

We all know what followed when he went to South Africa: Donovan recorded three goals in the World Cup, including the winner against Algeria in stoppage time of the second half.

The Algeria goal landed the Yanks in the knockout stage, where despite a Donovan penalty, the United States crashed out to Ghana.

Having been so worn out over the first seven months of 2010, Donovan should have needed a few matches to get going again when he returned to the Galaxy, but he immediately scored in consecutive games against San Jose and D.C. United.

Though his side were embarrassingly eliminated from the CONCACAF Champions League by the Puerto Rico Islanders, he continued to play well, helping the Galaxy to the Supporters' Shield and a semifinal finish in the MLS Cup Playoff.

However, it was obvious that the months of nonstop football got to him in the end.

After such an incredible year, several clubs in Europe have shown interest in Donovan. Chief among these is obviously Everton, who fell in love with America's number 10 in the winter. Manchester City, Aston Villa and AC Milan are also clubs that expressed interest, among several others.

Donovan though made a statement on Sunday that is hard to misinterpret.

During his post-match interview with Rob Stone on ESPN, Donovan praised FC Dallas and what an incredibly exciting year he had. When Stone asked if he will be back, Donovan gave a definitive "oh yeah."

Now, players have made this statement before. Kaka said that he turned down Manchester City in 2009 to remain at Milan long term; that summer, he leaves for Real Madrid.

Johnny Damon said he would end his career at the Red Sox, only to turn his back on Fenway Park and cross the borders of a horrible rivalry and join the Yankees. Two different sports, same idea.

However, despite this statement, Donovan said a couple weeks ago that a loan to Everton is very possible. Again, like last year, he would be back for the start of MLS.

Everton was a big time in Donovan's career. After failing to impress during spells at Bayer Leverkusen and Bayern Munich, he proved his worth on the big stage.

What the future holds for Donovan is yet to be seen, but it seems likely he will be in Los Angeles next season. It may help his decision if Los Angeles makes a heavily rumored move and bring Milan winger Ronaldinho to the Home Depot Center.

Donovan is a class player. He will do what is best for him while hurting as few people as possible. People are always sad when a star leaves their club, but whatever is best for the player and club is most important.

Los Angeles have the talent to win without Landon; his loss would not be detrimental.

The transfer window does not open until New Years' Day. A decision will not be rushed.

However, Galaxy fans seem as if they do not need to worry at the moment.

Read more MLS news on BleacherReport.com

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