Even though Major League Soccer officials have decided to award Portland their latest franchise, Ottawa Senators owner Eugene Melnyk says that doesn't change his plans to build a new stadium and bring professional soccer to the capital.
"Absolutely nothing has changed with respect to the level of effort and resources Senators Sports & Entertainment is placing toward our MLS expansion and stadium efforts in Ottawa," Melnyk said in a statement to the media.
"The main hurdle for us is to gain the city's support for our proposed world-class stadium."
Melnyk says he plans to continue working closely with the city to secure support for a stadium in Kanata and a new MLS team in Ottawa.
"In the coming days, I am confident Commissioner Garber will be able to turn his focus to the league's expansion plans beyond 2011 and reaffirm that Ottawa remains under active consideration," he said.
League officials announced Friday that Portland will become the home of the league's 18th team. On Wednesday, Vancouver was awarded an MLS franchise. Both teams are expected to begin play in 2011.
