The Portland Timbers announced the signing of their first four players as they begin to build their roster ahead of their debut season in MLS in 2011.
WATCH: Spencer on Dike
And by all indications, head coach John Spencer is going to look to attack.
Striker Bright Dike scored 10 goals for the Timbers in 2010 in USSF D-2 action. He was drafted by the Columbus Crew in the first round of the 2010 SuperDraft but was released before the season started.
"It feels amazing," Dike said of being drafted. "It was a blessing in disguise [to be let go by the Crew], and I feel I've become a better player because of it."
Ryan Pore, who was drafted by the Kansas City Wizards on 2005, won the USSF D-2 Golden Boot in 2010. He scored 25 goals in two seasons with the Timbers.
WATCH: Spencer on Pore
"It's all about confidence, scoring goals," the 27-year-old midfielder said. "I'm confident it's going to translate to the next level."
Pore scored three goals in 58 appearances during his three seasons in KC.
"I have no problem with this guy's ability to step up to the next level," Spencer said. "There's no questions, no pointing fingers at this guy. He's a top player."
Eddie Johnson, a 25-year-old English striker who was with the Austin Aztex in 2010, has never played for the Timbers but was on Spencer's wish-list for several years now.
WATCH: Spencer on Johnson
Spencer recalled seeing Johnson, who was once on the books at Manchester United, play for the Aztex in a match against Houston when Spencer was an assistant with the Dynamo.
"I've got confidence in my ability and, obviously, the organization has shown some confidence by bringing me in," Johnson said. "Hopefully, I can repay them."
The only non-attacker announced on Tuesday was former LA Galaxy goalie Steve Cronin. The second-division goalkeeper of the year in 2009 will return to MLS after two seasons in Portland.
WATCH: Spencer on Cronin
"For me being a part of this organization and this city is the most important thing," Cronin said. "I have nothing but high expectations for this team and this organization."
"We do anticipate taking another two players from the 2010 Portland timbers roster," said technical director Gavin Wilkinson.
