Geoff Cameron doesn’t envision another season like last year. That’s part of the reason he will be in Houston until 2014.
After missing the playoffs for the first time in their history, the Dynamo signed Cameron - who had one year remaining on his contract - to a three-year extension earlier this month. The 25-year-old is excited to return to a squad that he labels hardworking and dedicated.
“With the veterans coming back and the mixture of new blood coming in, we’re hungry,” Cameron told MLSsoccer.com. “Everyone wants to get back on the right track. No one wants to be mediocre and have a season like we did last year.”
When describing the players that will surround him next year, it’s evident that Cameron’s respect for his teammates and the inspiration they provide him was pivotal in his decision to re-sign. There’s midfielder Lovel Palmer, who has “a great engine” and “never stops working.” [inline_node:316552]And, of course, there’s Brian Ching, and the all-important leadership he provides on the pitch.
“He has won championships,” Cameron said. "He knows exactly what it takes to get there."
While he sees himself as a good fit with the team, the timing for the extension was also right. Re-signing alleviates the worry that another serious injury – like the ruptured PCL that sidelined him for months last season – will interfere with his long-term career goals.
“I’ll get more experience playing in MLS with the Dynamo," he said. "At the end of the day, it was the best thing for me and my future in soccer. I have no regrets, and I’m looking forward to contending for a championship next year.”
After moving to a central midfield position last season, Cameron expects to play midfield again in 2011, though he says he is still comfortable if he is needed on the back line.
“Depending on position needed, I can play either center mid or center back,” he said. “I like center back and am comfortable there, and I also have the urge to get forward. … I’m going with the frame of mind that I’ll be playing one of these, and I’m just going to focus on that going in to preseason. Right now, I expect to be center mid, but I’m preparing for both.”
To return to the playoffs, Cameron says he is willing to play wherever he is asked.
“We know what it takes to get back to the playoffs, and now we know the feeling of not making it," Cameron said, "and we use that to fuel the fire and get back to winning ways."
