Seattle Sounders forward Fredy Montero has been named as the 2009 MLS Newcomer of the Year.

The 22-year old Colombian finished tied for third in goals (12) and game-winning goals (4). He led the MLS in shots (86) and was seventh in attempts on goal (32) and was among Seattle's four representatives in this year's MLS All-Star game.

Montero beat Sounders teammates Kasey Keller and Freddie Ljungberg to the award after crossing from Deportivo Cali in January this year.

He was impressive in his role up forward and through the midfield as the Sounders qualified for the MLS play-offs in just their first season in the MLS.