When LucianoEmilio arrived in Washington last winter, his most confident English phrase was, “It’s in the net,” an impression of Comcast SportsNet broadcaster Dave Johnson.
On Tuesday he conducted part of his interviews in English, with an interpreter serving only as backup.
“I’m feeling good in Washington,” said Emilio. “I go every time in the city. I like it here. The team is playing very good, and I am so happy.”
The 28-year-old Brazilian is torching Major League Soccer with a league-high 18 goals, and he’s endeared himself to his D.C. United teammates with his instant humor, ready smile, and of course, renditions of James Blunt’s “You’re Beautiful” in the showers after a victory.
“He’s a riot,” said midfielder Ben Olsen. “He really is. He’s a funny guy, and to be as funny as he is and not speak our language is pretty impressive. He barely speaks a hundred words of English, but he uses them.”
United head coach Tom Soehn initially spoke German with Emilio — he spent four years in Germany — but said his English has improved dramatically.
“I don’t know how anybody can adjust that fast. He speaks better than Josh Gros,” joked Soehn.
Emilio’s play of late, including four goals in two games, has led to reports in Honduras — where he also lived for four years — that he might be asked to naturalize and play for the Honduran national team. Emilio, who was named MLS player of the week for the second time this year, said he has not received any official contact from the Honduran federation but that the possibility was interesting.
What is more assured is his return next season to D.C. United, which is all but certain to exercise its option to retain the forward for 2008. United also has options for the 2009 and 2010 seasons.
“I came with the intention of staying here and playing,” said Emilio, succumbing to the use of the interpreter. “Right now I’m just concentrating on this year, but I feel comfortable here, and I do want to come back. We’ll talk at the end of the season with the club.”
Real Salt Lake at D.C. United
When » Tonight, 7:30
Where » RFK Stadium
TV » Comcast SportsNet
Radio » 1160 AM, SRN (1540 AM, 1390 AM, 1600 AM and 1350 AM)
