New York, NY (Sports Network) - Seattle Sounders FC forward Eddie Johnson was named the 2012 MLS Comeback Player of the Year on Tuesday.
Johnson, 28, returned to MLS following a lackluster stint in Europe and had 14 goals and three assists in 28 games with Seattle. He previously played in MLS with Dallas and Kansas City from 2001-07.
Signed by Fulham in 2008, Johnson struggled with the English club and went out on loan to Cardiff City and Preston North End in England and Aris in Greece in his time in Europe.
"I would like (to thank) the entire Sounders organization for giving me this opportunity in Seattle," said Johnson. "This was a fun and exciting year and I share this award with my coaches and teammates for pushing me to be the best player I can be."
D.C. United attacker Chris Pontius was second in the final voting and San Jose Earthquakes forward Alan Gordon was third.
Johnson's resurgence also earned him a return to the U.S. national team, where he scored twice against Antigua and Barbuda to help his country reach the last stage of CONCACAF World Cup qualifying.
He was also named Comeback Player of the Year in 2007, when he scored 15 goals for Kansas City after having just two goals the previous season.
The award was voted on by media, MLS players and MLS club management based on regular season performance.
