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The most controversial trade in Philadelphia Union history has officially been reversed.
The Philadelphia Union and New York Red Bulls have announced that they sent Sebastien Le Toux to Philadelphia in exchange for Josue Martinez and allocation money.
"Sébastien indicated to us at the end of the season that he wanted to return to Philadelphia," Red Bulls Sporting Director Andy Roxburgh said to NewYorkRedBulls.com, "and we respected his request."
Union team officials talked about their excitement at having Le Toux come back to Philadelphia in the club's announcement.
"In our hearts Sebastien has always been a Union player and his contributions on the field and in the community while he was in Philadelphia were invaluable. We are thrilled to welcome him back and look forward to having him rejoin the club," CEO & operating partner Nick Sakiewicz said to PhiladelphiaUnion.com.
Le Toux was dealt by the Union to the Vancouver Whitecaps prior to the start of the 2012 Major League Soccer regular season, garnering Philadelphia an unknown amount (due to league and team policies, allocation money amounts are not disclosed) allocation money in return. The French striker then was traded by the Whitecaps to the Red Bulls for allocation money and winger Dane Richards, who left MLS after the season ended.
"We are happy to welcome Sebastien back to the club," team manager John Hackworth said to the club's official site. "His determination and heart are a perfect fit for the mentality of this team."
The Union also stated in their press release that the Le Toux press conference will take place tomorrow, December 7, at 10 am at PPL Park.
Martinez's year with the Union was less impressive than the young striker probably expected, as he earned only 594 minutes of playing time in 18 appearances (in six starts). The Red Bulls, however, think highly of the former Costa Rican international forward.
"We are excited to bring Josué to the Red Bulls. Our staff considers him a young player with potential. In addition, the allocation money we received will provide us some financial flexibility," said Roxburgh to the Red Bulls' official team website.