Maurice Edu slected first in MLS SupderDraft

Mo Johnson and Toronto FC have selected University of Maryland's Maurice Edu as the first pick in the 2007 MLS draft.

Edu was considered on of the NCAA's premier defensive midfielders but he was also a threat on offense.

"Maurice Edu is an extremely special young man," said Maryland head coach Sasho Cirovski, who recruited Edu out of Fontana, Calif. "The level of interest in his ability from both Major League Soccer and European teams has become extremely intense. After three weeks of careful consideration, Maurice has decided to enter the professional ranks. He has both the physical and mental capacities to not only become a great pro but a full U.S. National Team member in the future.

"He has served our program and the athletics department in exemplary and honorable fashion for three years," Cirovski continued. "I am extremely proud of his development. Though it is a significant loss to our team, I speak for the entire Maryland soccer family when I say we wish him well."

Edu joins Freddy Adu, Brian McBide, Alecko Eskandarian and Marvell Wynne as fist picks in MLS drafts.