Ricketts in camp; Walker let go

The Quakes are currently taking a look at English striker Michael Ricketts. The 6-foot-3 forward has played for a slew of English clubs, mostly notably with Bolton Wanderers and Middlesbrough. More recently he played for League One side Oldham Athletic where he scored two goals in 12 league and cup appearances. He fared better during a loan spell at fellow League One side Walsall, scoring five goals in 16 games, but had his contract terminated by Oldham after the loan deal had expired.

One player more firmly in the Quakes’ plans is Ryan Johnson. The midfielder turned down a developmental deal from the Fire in 2007, and as a result, his MLS rights are still held by Chicago, making it unclear what the Fire will demand in the way of compensation.

Exiting the Quakes’ plans is former hero Jamil Walker. The Santa Clara product has struggled to recover from an Achilles tendon injury sustained last season with D.C. United that robbed him of some of his electric pace. Walker will always be remembered for some memorable moments in the 2003 championship season, including a goal in *that* game against LA in that year’s playoffs, as well as a sparkling assist on Landon Donovan’s first goal in the 2003 MLS Cup final. Best of luck to Jamil.