MVP Schelotto to return to Crew in 2009

The Columbus Crew announced Tuesday that it has exercised the option year on the contract of 2008 league and MLS Cup MVP Guillermo Barros Schelotto, keeping the Argentine for the 2009 season. The move makes him the club's first Designated Player, though no further terms of the deal were disclosed.

Schelotto collected seven goals and 19 assists in 27 games during the 2008 regular season. He also set a new Crew record for most assists in a season, eclipsing John Wilmar Perez's 15 in 2001, and finished the season tied for second in MLS history for assists in a season.

"Securing Guille's return was one of our top priorities entering the offseason and we are pleased to get that accomplished," said Crew president and general manager Mark McCullers. "It goes without saying that he was one of the keys to our championship season and, on top of that, he helps attract international attention to both the club and our region. We look forward to his continued dynamic contributions next season."

Thanks in large part to Schelotto's leadership and playmaking ability, Columbus won the Supporters' Shield with a 17-7-6 record and 57 points, shattering the club record for points in a season.

Schelotto also proved to be a difference maker in the 2008 MLS Cup playoffs, as he helped lead the Crew to its first-ever MLS Cup Championship. The Argentine playmaker totaled three assists in the decisive match, a 3-1 victory over New York, setting a new record for assists in an MLS Cup final and earning him MVP honors for the match.