Quick Kicks: Steve Zakuani, 2008 MLS Top Rookie Pick

Steve Zakuani was born in the Congo, but grew up in England. Last year at the University of Akron, Zakuani led the nation in scoring with 20 goals and seven assists. He was a finalist for the M.A.C. Trophy, awarded to the top collegiate soccer player in the nation. Prior to coming to the US, Zakuani played with Arsenal’s (English Premier League) youth teams from 1997 to 2003.

According to Seattle Sounders head coach Sigi Schmid, “Steve’s got speed, a good pace. He’s clever and a good dribbler.”

Nickname: On this team I don’t really have a nickname. Mainly “Zaks” for short.

Club supported: Arsenal

Strengths: Speed. Dribbling with speed I’d say.

Weaknesses: Defending, off the ball stuff, tracking back and heading a little bit.

Soccer heroes: In the world, it was Ronaldhino for a long time. At the moment it’s Christiano Ronaldo

Highlight to date: My first MLS start over the weekend (against Real Salt Lake, where he earned his first MLS assist). That’s the highest thing so far.

Impressions of the MLS: The level is so much higher. Everyone’s so good on the ball. The speed of play is incredible. It’s been an adjustment.

Biggest influences: My college coach up there (in Akron) Caleb Porter and my father.

Tunes on IPod: A little bit of everything. Some rap, R&B. I love English stuff. English rap and R&B things you can’t get over here.

Dream car: Any BMW.

Favorite movies: Remember The Titans is up there and the Malcolm X movie.

Something we don’t know about you: That I speak very fluent French.

In five years I’ll be: Hopefully, still playing, progressing and in Europe.

John Zielonka is the Goal.com correspondent in Seattle. He can be reached at zielojo@seattlesoccer.us.