Is a Liverpool Legend on the Union Radar?
By Kevin Kinkead
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- After six months of service, Rene Meulensteen will not carry on as a special consultant to the Philadelphia Union.
But before moving on, the former Manchester United assistant reportedly provided the Union front office with a final list of recommended players for the summer transfer window.
Sources tell CBS Philly that one of those players under consideration is former Liverpool left back John Arne Riise.
The 34-year-old defender is looking for a new club after a successful season in Cyprus, where he won the league and cup double with APOEL FC.
Riise touched on his future in a recent blog post on his official website.
"I have after a lot of consideration decided to not take another year at APOEL. This is a decision I took a few weeks ago," said Riise. "Now I will have a long summer and decide what to do next. I could go back to Norway, but I do feel I have some more years abroad."
In an article dated May 25th, Norwegian media outlet TV 2 reported that Riise told them he has an offer from India, and that the United States is an "attractive" destination.
That report makes sense, since Meulensteen is rumored to be a candidate for the Mumbai City job. The Indian Super League club could be a possible destination for Riise if Meulensteen winds up there.
Riise and Meulensteen crossed paths at Fulham back in 2014. The left back was out of favor under former manager Martin Jol, but found himself in Meulensteen's plans during the Dutchman's brief tenure at Craven Cottage. Meulensteen was sacked for Felix Magath after less than two months in charge and Riise moved on.
Riise is currently on vacation in the United States. He appears to be taking part in the World Series of Poker in Las Vegas and is posting updates on his blog and his social media handles.
The Norway international is reaching the end of his career, but he can still strike a ball. He scored this freekick goal in the Cypriot cup final against AEL Limassol.
Riise scored four goals for APOEL this season and played a bit in the club's difficult Champion's League campaign. APOEL was drawn with Barcelona, Paris St. Germain, and Ajax and expectedly crashed out in the group stage.
He was most famous for his spell with Liverpool, highlighted by the 2005 Champion's League victory over AC Milan. Riise then moved to Roma and Fulham before making the switch to Cyprus.
