Elliott, a standout for the All Whites at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa joins the Los Angeles-based club after a short mid-season stint with the Wellington Phoenix as injury cover, while Boyens, an unused member of New Zealand’s squad in South Africa, moves to the West Coast from the New York Red Bulls.
The pair’s international and professional experience was cited as a key reason for their recruitment.
“These signings give us depth and experience in the middle of the field,” Chivas USA head coach Robin Fraser says.
“I have known Simon for a long time and I know he can help us both on and off the field, and we saw in the World Cup last summer what he’s capable of. Andrew is a solid central defender with international experience who will be a good addition to our backline.”
Stanford graduate Elliott, 36, last played in the MLS for San Jose Earthquakes in the 2009 season but had previously enjoyed successful spells with the LA Galaxy (1999-2003) and Columbus Crew (2004-2005), as well as an injury-plagued two seasons with Fulham in the English Premier League.
He was a constant presence in the heart of midfield for the All Whites in South Africa, playing every minute of New Zealand’s unbeaten FIFA World Cup campaign. His 68 ‘A’ international caps for New Zealand are second only to Ivan Vicelich on the all-time list.
Boyens, 27, has been in Major League Soccer since 2007, after a decorated college career at the University of New Mexico. He began with Toronto FC before moving to New York a year later.
He has racked up 56 appearances in the MLS while earning 16 caps for the All Whites since his 2006 debut.
Story and photo courtesy of NZ Football.
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