Brian Perk was among the six LA Galaxy players made available for the Re-Entry Draft process, but the 23-year-old goalkeeper is hopeful that he’ll be back in 2013.
During Bruce Arena’s end-of-the-year teleconference with local media, the Galaxy head coach admitted that he had conversations with a several of the players made available for the process and Perk revealed that he was one of those players.
However, Perk admitted that while he is optimistic, his return is far from certain.
“We’ve had a couple conversations,” Perk said. “It seems pretty promising so far, but I don’t want to get my hopes up or say something that’s just not true. We should figure it out [soon] or come to terms or see what is going to go on. I do want to stay here because this is my home. It’d be great to stay and extend my deal.”
In seven starts in all official competitions, Perk went 2-3-2 in nets but conceded nine goals with two shutouts—both coming in CONCACAF Champions League. Meanwhile in MLS Reserve League play, Perk made five starts going 1-1-1 record while allowing three goals and earning a single shutout.
Although a number of factors including his salary could determine whether he is back for the 2013 season, the most important thing for Perk is playing time.
“It’s always a numbers game so you just have to weigh your options. There’s also the playing side of it, whether here or somewhere else might be better,” said Perk. “It’s a toss-up; it’s just a decision that has to be made by me. I’ve already spoken to Bruce and we know where we stand. We’re not too far apart at all. So I’d prefer to stay here, but you never know."
But whether he is selected in the Re-Entry Draft by another club or brought back to the Galaxy, Perk plans to spend the offseason honing his craft in search of more minutes in net next season.
"I really need to focus this offseason on physical shape. I think I can gain a couple of things in the gym and really apply that next year. There's a few things I need to work on and the gym is going to help with that. [I need to work on] aerial balls and coming out for crosses, so if I can jump a little bit higher then it will be a little bit easier."
