Andre Blake has the skills and ambition to one day, perhaps, play for a top club in Europe.
But until that day comes, the Jamaican goalkeeper is more than happy to be a foundational piece in Philadelphia.
“It’s always good when there’s a place you can call home,” Blake told reporters via conference call, shortly after signing a new multi-year contract with the Union. “And I’m just very excited I was able to come to an agreement in Philadelphia. I’m ready to go and I’m looking forward to a new season.”
Blake’s dynamic play over the last two seasons led to some speculation about a future in Europe. And even Union head coach Jim Curtin once said that his “hope for him is to someday play at Manchester United” — a team that Blake rooted for while growing up in Jamaica.
But the 27-year-old has only been a pro starter for two full seasons after injuries and personnel decisions held him to just seven appearances over his first two years in MLS. So at this point, it seems, the opportunity to develop more in Philly takes precedence over an immediate overseas gamble.
“Right now my main focus is Philadelphia,” Blake said. “I’m not worried about the future. I’m gonna live in the now and continue to work hard and make my performance speak for itself.”
There are, of course, other advantages of remaining in Philadelphia, where Blake is beloved by fans. One of them is being closer to Jamaica, which he said is “definitely a positive” for his frequent international call-ups. And another is getting the continued opportunity to not only grow into one of the most exciting players in MLS but also a leader on a young Union team.
“I am ready to lead in my own way,” Blake said. “I’ll definitely try to lead by my performance on the field and the way I carry myself off the field. If I should ever be put in the role to lead the team whenever the time comes, I’ll be ready.”
Perhaps more than anything, having extra security and getting a pay raise could go a long way in providing peace of mind as the 2018 season approaches for the MLS All-Star and former MLS Goalkeeper of the Year.
“It’s definitely great to be rewarded for your performance,” Blake said. “I just hope to be able to continue to work hard and do even more for the club and the people of Philadelphia.”
