Brian McBride celebrates with his teammates after scoring a goal against Toronto F.C. (Nuccio DiNuzzo / Tribune)
Staff reportThe Chicago Fire may be without a head coach, having fired Denis Hamlett this week, but will have the services of two veteran stars next season. The team picked up the options on Brian McBride and C.J. Brown today.
McBride, an Arlington Heights native, scored seven goals this season and was named team MVP this season. Brown has been with the team since its inaugural season in 1998
"We are pleased to have both Brian and C.J. back with the team for 2010," Fire technical director Frank Klopas said in a statement. "McBride is a force on the field and his experience is unmatched by many in MLS. He will play another invaluable role for us in 2010.
"C.J.'s contributions in 2009 were key in helping us to reach the Eastern Conference Championship Final this season. We need them both back on the pitch to help lead us toward a MLS Cup championship."
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Niiiiice, great to have'em back.