Player Profile: Kenny Deuchar

Kenny Deuchar

Position: Forward
Date of Birth: June 8, 1980 (27)
Place of Birth: Stirling, Scotland
Height: 6 ft 3 in
Weight: 200
Previous Clubs: St. Johnstone, Northampton, Gretna, East Fife, Falkirk
National Team Exp: none
Jersey Number: #16
Current Status: Senior Roster (International)
How Acquired: Free transfer

Personal summary: Born in Stirling. Is a licensed doctor. Nicknamed by Jeff Stelling host of Sky Sports Soccer Saturday as “The Good Doctor”.

Professional summary/highlights: Started his career with Falkirk. Then transferred to East Fife and led them to a promotion. At the same time he became a doctor. In 2004, transferred to Gretna in the 3rd division. Led them to promotion to 2nd division and in 2007 to the Scottish Premiere league. Garth Lagerway signed him almost immediately after watching him play against SPL juggernaut Rangers in a game in which he scored 2 goals.

Webpages/Myspace/Facebook: Bebo.com: http://www.bebo.com/DoctorGoals

Youtube/video links: St. Johnston –vs- Dunfermline 2007

Other links: MLS Player profile: Kenny Deuchar/MLSnet, Wikipedia Page: Kenny Deuchar/Wiki, Transfer announcement, Deuchar on Bill Riley show (courtesy of AYL)

Keepin It Real Expectations for 2008: Deuchar is almost a lock to start because of his proven experience and his physical presence. As he told Garth Lagerway, he just “scores goals”. Because of his work permit issues which held him out during two weeks of final practice before the season opener, it is unclear whether he will play or start for the first match against the Fire. When he does get in the lineup, let’s hope he can notch 10 goals or more for the season. I believe this is a real possibility.

Fans Scorecard Ratings: Deuchar rating

Interesting Fact/tidbits/quote: In 2005, tied a Scottish record of 6 hat tricks in a single season. In 2006, scored 11 goals in a friendly match against Threave Rovers (18-0 score). Part owner of a restaurant called the Wheelhouse. Ian Joy, who is also of Scottish descent, had a hand in recruiting Deuchar. Before signing, Deuchar talked to Joy on the phone to get his impression of the club. Deuchar is a Napolean Dynamite fan. Apparently his last year or so at Gretna was not a good experience as seen from his Bebo.com profile:
Happiest When: “not being moaned at!!! and scoring goals!!! On loan away from Gretna!!!”

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Player Profile: Ian Joy

Ian Joy

Position: Defender (Left Back)
Date of Birth: July 14, 1981 (26)
Place of Birth: San Diego, California
Height: 5 ft 7 in
Weight:
Previous Clubs: St. Pauli (2 Bundesliga), Hamburg SV, Columbus Crew, Chester City, Kidderminster, Montrose FC
National Team Exp: United States U-20 (16 caps)
Jersey Number: #13
Current Status: Senior Roster
How Acquired: Free Transfer from St. Pauli

Personal summary: Born in San Diego, Ian was raised in Scotland from the age of 4. As a teen he left home to train with Manchester United.

Professional summary/highlights: After his youth efforts at Manchester United, he continued his training with Tranmere. Played for the US Under 17, Under 20, and Under 23 during this time. Played in 2000/2001 with FC Montrose. Then played the following season with Kidderminster. In 2002/2003 Ian plied his trade with Chester City before coming stateside for a brief stint with the Columbus Crew. In 2003, he returned to Europe playing for Hamburg SV in the German third division. In 2004, Ian moved to St. Pauli in the Bundesliga 3rd division, where he helped the club ascend to the 2nd division.

Webpages/Myspace/Facebook: IanJoy.Com

Youtube/video links: Preseason

Other links: MLS Player profile: Ian Joy/MLSnet; Wikipedia Page: Ian Joy/Wiki

Keepin It Real Expectations for 2008: Ian should start in this spot all season, as the club is quite thin at experienced, outside back. Our guess is that Ian will be a solid player, and will make us forget about backline players like Kotschau, Forko, and Kipre who all had their moments, but made you cringe at times.

Fans Scorecard Ratings: Joy Rating

Interesting Fact/tidbits/quote: Ian holds dual British/American citizenship as his mother is from Scotland.

Ian contacted Garth Lagerway out-of-the-blue about joining Real Salt Lake: “Major League Soccer has always been a dream of mine, and I didn't want to be 30 years old and finishing my career when I joined. I still want to learn and, in the meantime, help our players with the experience I have gained over my years in European soccer,” said Joy. “Why Real Salt Lake? I love a challenge and I think that with a great staff behind you, a great coaching staff pushing you, and the right players, there is a great chance of success. I have come to Real Salt Lake to do the best I can, to become a better soccer player and learn from the coaches, but most importantly I have come to win. It’s in my blood and I will do anything it takes to walk off the field after every game a winner.”

Ian actually lived within a few miles of Kenny Deuchar in Scotland, and talked to Deuchar before Kenny made the final decision to join RSL.

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