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FRIENDLY CALL-UP

Haiti brings in Red Bulls' Laventure

He might not get many opportunities to play for the Red Bulls, but forward Jerrod Laventure could see some action with the Haitian National Team.

Red Bulls reserve forward Jerrod Laventure has been called up to the Haitian National Team for the first time in his career in preparation for two international friendlies against El Salvador in Port-Au-Prince, Haiti Saturday, Jan. 26 and Tuesday, Jan. 29.

"I'm really excited about being selected," said Laventure, who leaves for Haiti Wednesday. "I think any soccer player's dream is to represent their country. It's a great opportunity, I'm looking forward to it and hopefully, I can rise to the occasion."

Haiti doesn't begin its World Cup qualifying run until June. The Caribbean side will meet the winner of the CONCACAF first-round series between Nicaragua and the Netherlands Antilles. Nicaragua will host the first leg Feb. 6, visiting the Netherland Antilles March 26.

Laventure, 25, has never been called up to the Haitian National Team. The Middle Island, L.I. resident played in one game (for four minutes) in 2007 while scoring five goals in reserve division action.

In his 2006 rookie year season, Laventure scored his first career MLS goal and assist while performing in five regular- season games (70 minutes). His long-range strike against the Columbus Crew on July 19 in a 2-0 win earned him MLS goal of the week honors.

The 6-1, 170-lb. forward was signed by the Red Bulls April 12, 2006.

Laventure played for Seton Hall University, where he was named to the Big East first team after recording eight goals and six assists in his senior season in 2005.