Sounders pick Creighton’s Joel Rydstrand in second round

The Sounders doubled the number of Swedish midfielders on their pre-season roster Friday, selecting Joel Rydstrand from Creighton University with the 44th overall pick in the second round of the MLS SuperDraft. Rydstrand led the Bluejays in assists the past three seasons.

Born in Uppsala, Sweden, Rydstrand will likely occupy an international roster slot if he is signed to a first-team contract. The Swede spent most of his youth with the IK Sirius academy. He ended the 2018 season as the Big East Midfielder of the Year and earned a spot on the United Soccer Coaches All-East Region Second Team.

Rydstrand was a consistent presence for Creighton, playing in every match the program had across four years and starting 81 of 82. Rydstrand finished his college career with 7 goals and 23 assists.

Even if signed to a first-team contract, it seems likely that Rydstrand will play the majority of his minutes with S2 this season. The Tacoma side is depleted in the defensive midfield and time in the USL may help him develop as a potential first-team contributor.

Seattle still holds the 68th overall pick, which will be made as part of a league conference call on Monday.