Gilles Grimandi, formerly of this parish, is to become the first Francais to play in that fixture of late night Channel 5... no, not soft porn, US Major League Soccer.

The Grimster has confirmed that he is to join Colorado Rapids on a 2-year deal, despite interest from Premiership high(ish)-flyers Middlesbrough. 'I was very flattered to get the call from Middlesbrough and they said lots of nice things about me,' he says, 'but Colorado were pressing me for a decision at the same time and I had to make my mind up quickly.'

Interestingly, Gilles refused offers to go back to France, saying: 'All the players who have had a great experience abroad will tell you it's not easy to return to France.'

Grimandi's arrival forces the departure of the legendary (and even curlier-haired) Carlos Valderrama, who played in Denver last season, and turns 42 next month. The MLS season kicks off in April.