Chivas USA’s Thornton named Goalkeeper of the Year

Chivas USA’s Zach Thornton has been named the 2009 MLS Goalkeeper of the Year.

The 36-year old posted a career-best 12 shutouts (clean sheets), just one shy of the club record and his goals against average of 0.87 ranks second all-time in MLS behind Pat Onstad who managed 0.82 in 2007 with Houston Dynamo.

Thornton joined Chivas in August 2008, crossing from New York Red Bulls after starting his career in 1996 with MetroStars.

He then moved onto the Chicago Fire where he made over 200 appearances and also enjoyed a loan spell with Portuguese giants Benfica.

Thornton then had a brief stint with the Colorado Rapids in 2007 before moving to New York.

He has also represented the USA at international level on eight occasions.