Minnesota United have retained one of their key players from the 2014 season, announcing on Wednesday that they've agreed a deal to bring captain Aaron Pitchkolan back for the 2015 season. Pitchkolan joined United in 2013, and has captained the club ever since. The 31-year old spent his first season in Minnesota playing center back, before transitioning to the midfield for the 2014 season after the addition of Tiago Calvano.

Pitchkolan's play as a holding midfielder was excellent this past season, and his seamless transition to the role was one of the biggest reasons United managed to win the spring title and top the combined table. His presence allowed Miguel Ibarra to spend the vast majority of his energy focusing on the attack, forming a dynamic partnership with forward Christian Ramirez.

Bringing Pitchkolan back will certainly help Minnesota repeat the success they had this past season, but they still need to find a way to hang onto both Ibarra and Ramirez if they really want to remain favorites next spring. There will likely be plenty of interest in both from MLS sides.