Sitting in eighth place in the Western Conference, the San Jose Earthquakes made a big (both literally and figuratively) acquisition on Wednesday to gear up for a playoff push. Forward Henok Goitom, who stands an imposing 6’2, is expected to boost the club’s offense down the stretch of the season.
An experienced striker, Goitom has had success playing in both Spain and Sweden, with a goal in Italy’s Serie A as well (in one total appearance). His highlights show a tremendous ability to score in a multitude of ways, blasting shots with both feet and proving a handful for defenders in the air. He also has displayed excellent field vision with clever passing and strong off-the-ball runs.
Goitom’s size is something the Quakes need. Among all forwards on the club, Chris Wondolowski is currently the tallest healthy forward at 6’0 after Adam Jahn’s trade to Columbus. Mark Sherrod stands 6’3, but hasn’t made an appearance since July 17, 2015. Both Chad Barrett (5’11) and Quincy Amarikwa (5’9) are physically imposing and capable of scoring in the air, but are south of the six-foot mark.
The 31-year-old also possesses an international pedigree, having previously been a regular with the Sweden under-21s and recently making a pair of appearances for the African nation of Eritrea. He has scored 78 professional club goals, one senior national team goal and four youth national team goals.
Off the field, Goitom should also be a welcome addition to the San Jose community. Back in Sweden, he manages a youth club called Kista Galaxy FC that welcomes participation from all ethnicities, religions, sexual orientations and backgrounds with the goal of encouraging a diverse and equal society where everyone is valued.
