CARSON, Calif. – Former English Premier League striker Luke Moore felt there was no better time to cross the Atlantic Ocean, and Chivas USA can only hope he emerges as an offensive threat alongside budding star Erick “Cubo” Torres atop their formation.
Moore, who has 27 career goals in England’s top division and helped Swansea City gain promotion three years ago, made his first start with the Goats last weekend and figures to be a key component moving forward as the club seeks consistency from their strikers.
Moving stateside was simply an opportunity the 28-year-old Moore couldn’t pass up.
“I’m not coming out here at 34; I’m coming here at a good age,” Moore told MLSsoccer.com. “I just want to throw myself into it and work hard. Once I get my feet under me, I feel I can be a good asset for the club.”
Moore, who signed with Chivas USA in late February after a brief stay with Turkey’s Super League side Sanica Boru Elazigspor, credited the staff for helping him push through the adjustment period quickly. The Aston Villa academy product also pointed to productive conversations with countrymen Nigel Reo-Coker (Vancouver) and Giles Barnes (Houston) regarding the league and competition level.
“Everyone knows it’s a developing league, but it’s coming up quick,” Moore said. “Physically, there are a couple of good players. I knew about it coming in because I speak with friends quite a lot. Nigel and Giles are actually loving it here.”
- Get the latest Chivas USA news at CDChivasUSA.com!
Torres is tied for the league lead with three goals, while offseason acquisition Mauro Rosales leads the club with three assists. The rest of the attack, though, appears rather fluid.
The coaching staff has been impressed with Moore’s work in training and intend to give him time to find his rhythm, even with fellow league newcomer Adolfo “Bofo” Bautista vying for the same minutes.
“They’ve got to understand each other’s movements and play with each other very well,” Chivas USA assistant coach Paul Caffrey told MLSsoccer.com. “It takes a little time for even the best players to figure out each other’s moves, tendencies and all that. It’s in the beginning stages with Luke and Erick, but both are very talented and we’re confident they’ll be able to find the best out of each other.”
Moore, who was credited with three shots in 78 minutes in last week’s loss to FC Dallas, has big aspirations for himself in MLS, though he is not comfortable disclosing them just yet.
Chivas USA only hope those goals materialize, perhaps as early as this Sunday against the New York Red Bulls (3 pm ET, UniMas).
“The staff here is very professional and that certainly helps making the transition quicker,” Moore said. “Obviously you work harder to catch up with the boys. I was a bit behind fitness wise, but everything is great. It’s been easy for me to settle.”
