Galaxy To Ink Defender Omar Gonzalez To Multiyear Deal

CARSON, Calif. (AP) Defender Omar Gonzalez has agreed to a new multiyear contract with the Los Angeles Galaxy, who have named him a designated player.

The Galaxy announced the deal Thursday for the U.S. national team regular.

Gonzalez joins Landon Donovan and Robbie Keane as the Galaxy's designated players, an honor reserved for MLS stars who can receive more lucrative contracts than other players. Gonzalez is the first American defender to be named a designated player.

Gonzalez was named MLS' top defender in 2011 while the Galaxy won the league title. He returned from an injury to help Los Angeles to its second straight title last December, earning MLS Cup MVP honors.

The 24-year-old Gonzalez is a three-time All-Star. He had been linked with possible moves to international clubs in recent years.