Revs decline options on four players

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. – The New England Revolution declined contract options for 2011 on defender Cory Gibbs, goalkeeper Preston Burpo, midfielder Khano Smith and midfielder Nico Colaluca making all eligible to enter the inaugural Re-Entry Process, which begins next week. Stage 1 of the Re-Entry Draft will take place via teleconference on Wednesday, Dec. 8, with all 18 teams participating.

The Revs brought in Cory Gibbs in the offseason to add a veteran presence to their backline, but finished the season with the worst defensive record in the league.(Photo by CHRIS ADUAMA/aduama.com)

The move marks the end of Burpo’s and Gibbs’ short careers with the Revs. The two veterans joined the Revs this offseason from Colorado in exchange for midfielders Jeff Larentowicz and Wells Thompson. Larentowicz and Thompson went on to win the MLS Cup this season with their new club, while Burpo and Gibbs were let go after a disappointing season that saw the Revs miss the play-offs for the first time since 2001.

Gibbs, 30, made a career-high 25 starts this season at both center and left back. He was a former U.S. International.

Burpo, 38, made 11 starts with two shutouts this season before suffering a broken tibia and fibula in his right leg during the run of play on May 29 against New York, ending his season.

Smith, 29, made 16 appearances, including six starts, while adding one assist this season in his second go-round with the Revolution.

Colaluca, 24, made seven appearances – including one in 2010 – in two seasons with the Revolution.

The Revolution will have the fourth selection in each round of the Re-Entry Draft. Eligible players may either choose to participate in the Re-Entry Process or may opt out.

Players Eligible for Selection in the Re-Entry Process:

(Listed alphabetically by club)