Earthquakes forward Danny Hoesen had a solid season by all accounts in 2017. His 10 points (five goals, five assists) during the MLS regular season were second most on the team behind Chris Wondolowski and his three goals during the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup were a team-high.

He was able to put up those numbers despite playing a good portion of the season on the right wing instead of his preferred No. 9 role. He also had the cloud of a one-year loan deal looming over his head.

Hoesen was acquired on a permanent transfer on Dec. 29 after the Quakes and his former club, FC Groningen, came to a mutually-agreed upon fee. The striker has 65 career goals to his name.

Now heading into 2018, Hoesen no longer feels the pressure of facing a new environment with an uncertain future.

“It’s definitely different because when we came, we didn’t know anybody (referring to him and Florian Jungwirth, who were announced on the same day in 2017). We didn’t know the league. This year, we’re just familiar with everything, with how the club works, how MLS works. You step in with more confidence because you know what’s going to happen and what’s going to come.”

Hoesen will also still be reeling from what he called his favorite moment of 2017: helping the club clinch a playoff berth on Decision Day.

“Our goal was to reach the playoffs and to do it at home in front of your own crowd in such an important game was a big relief.”