Former University of California midfielder Andrew Jacobson has explained the quick negotiations that saw him spurn overtures from MLS and sign with Ligue 1 club FC Lorient just before the transfer deadline last week.

"I had a trial with Caen, and though they really liked me, they thought I was more of a forward and attacking midfielder than a holding midfielder," Jacobson told YA. "They didn't need to fill such a position now."

"In the few days that were left before the end of the transfer window, I went to Lorient and trained for two days and they liked what they saw."

"The contract I signed is until the end of the season, and then the team and I can renegotiate again in the summer."

"It was pretty tight on time with the transfer deadline," the Palo Alto, California native continued, "but things went okay and I signed."

Despite being named a 2007 All-American and chosen 23rd in the recent MLS draft by DC United, the 22-year old doesn't see himself breaking into the first team immediately."

"Right now I'm training with the first team where I hope to become a better player."

"I had a good senior season, but this is a different level. They want me to get fit because this is a totally different fitness level as well."

Lorient, who are currently seventh in the league travel to 10th place Valenciennes this weekend, although Jacobson will most likely not feature.