Parkhurst's return a kick-start

FOXBOROUGH - The Revolution welcomed defender Michael Parkhurst back to the team this week.

Parkhurst left in July to join the US Olympic team in Beijing. At that time, the Revolution held the best record in Major League Soccer and were in the midst of SuperLiga action.

When Parkhurst returned, the Revolution were on a three-game losing streak, second in the Eastern Conference standings, and looking to work around the loss of injured players, such as goalkeeper Matt Reis (adductor strain).

Parkhurst couldn't have come back at a better time.

"It's going to be good for us because we've been sinking the last two games," midfielder Shalrie Joseph said before last night's 2-1 win. "To get Michael is very good for us right now to make a run at the second part of the season. It's going to be important to have everybody ready and healthy."

The US team was eliminated by Nigeria, 2-1, Aug. 13, falling short of reaching the quarterfinals. Parkhurst played all 90 minutes in each of the US team's three games (1-1-1).

"It was a dream come true," said Parkhurst, a Rhode Island native.

While Parkhurst was in Beijing, he said he was able to keep up with the Revolution's matches by watching online. Last night, he went the whole way against D.C. United.

The Olympic exposure could make Parkhurst more attractive to European clubs looking at the 24-year-old.

The Revolution signed defender Gabriel Badilla of Costa Rica this week. When asked if that move was in anticipation of losing Parkhurst, Revolution coach Steve Nicol said, "We're not looking for direct replacements. We're looking for good players."

Parkhurst is not making decisions about his future at this point.

"I'm leaving that up to my agent to sort it out, and see what's out there," he said.

"I'm enjoying my time here."

Taking flight

The Revolution will pick up their share of frequent-flyer miles. They will be in Canada Saturday for a match against Toronto FC, then travel to Port of Spain, Trinidad, to play Joe Public FC in the CONCACAF Champions League opener Tuesday. The Revolution return to Foxborough Wednesday, traveling 6,070 miles.

Twellman getting there

Revolution striker Taylor Twellman played all 90 minutes and said he "felt all right, obviously not 100 percent. I've been out for a while, but it's getting there." Twellman has been slowed by numerous injuries this season, but last night he was in the middle of several scoring opportunities, including the team's first goal, his third of the season. Nicol said he expects Twellman will continue to improve the more he plays. "He is fit, he can run all day, but that extra sharpness you get from playing games is what he is missing," Nicol said. He added that Cristman continues to find ways to contribute. "Adam has been an absolute trouper, he has made a huge contribution the last four or five weeks."