D.C. United Selects Perry Kitchen In First Round of 2011 MLS Draft
Since Ben Olsen took over the reigns of DC United in November, the legendary midfielder has done his best to put his stamp on the team. He's already turned over roughly half the roster, and just about every player over the age of 26.
Olsen has sent a clear message that last year's finish at the bottom of the league and with the worst goal scoring performance in MLS history is not good enough. Today, the team chose to ignore the forward position, which is currently occupied by only two players, and instead took the best player on the board. United continued to improve its midfield by selecting Akron's Perry Kitchen.
With Kitchen on board, United has unquestionably one of the most talented midfields in all of MLS. Kitchen could either compete for playing time with newcomer Dax McCarty, and holdovers Clyde Simms, Stephen King, and Kurt Morsink for a central defensive midfield role. Or Kitchen could possibly be moved to fullback or central defense. It all depends on how quickly the 18-year old develops.
Taking the podium to heavy applause from the United fanbase and chants of his name, Kitchen thanked God, his girlfriend, and Thomas Rongen. In that order. You're going to love it in D.C. dude. And we're glad to have you.
More later.
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Great choice
there are 2 other rounds to fill the forward spot with. to come out with the best player of the draft @ 3 is wonderful.
Most diverse sports fan you will ever meet. Literally.
by ClingingMars on Jan 13, 2026 12:35 PM EST reply actions
His girlfriend is a model
I’d thank her over Thomas Rongen too. I talked to his dad, and interestingly, both Kitchen and his girlfriend were considering going to Europe. DC will have to do. His dad was very pleased with the arrangement, and I think Kitchen was too. He wore #23 in college as a tribute to Eddie Pope, and his girlfriend picked out a red and black tie for him today. It all seems like good signs.
by Brendanukkah on Jan 13, 2026 7:40 PM EST reply actions
Age
Apparently I was wrong in saying that Kitchen is 18. Being born on 2/29/92, Kitchen is technically only 4.
Managing Editor for BlackAndRedUnited.com. Weekend Writer for SBNation DC.
by Martin Shatzer on Jan 13, 2026 8:48 PM EST reply actions
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