Colorado Rapids Release Kevin Harbottle

Rapids technical director Paul Bravo announced the Chilean forward’s departure on Wednesday.

Colorado Rapids have released Chilean forward Kevin Harbottle, the club announced this Wednesday.

The 22-year-old Chilean was waived in order to further improve the Rapids as a whole, claims franchise technical director Paul Bravo.

“We want to wish Kevin well as he continues his professional career,” Bravo told MLSSoccer.com. “This move allows us the flexibility with our roster that we will need to continue improving our squad this season.”

Harbottle had failed to net once in his four starts up front for the Rapids who, despite sitting third in the Western Conference, still lack an out-and-out goal scorer.

Two loan spells in previous years to Chilean clubs O’Higgins and Union Espanola saw promising goal returns for the young attacker, leading to a big move to South American giants Universidad Catolica.

Five goals in 32 appearances during the 2011-12 Chilean Primera Division season was enough to convince Rapids management to sign Harbottle, however he failed to impress in the MLS.

The decision to release Harbottle, along with Bravo’s comments, will surely only further fuel speculation over the potential signing for a first ever Designated Player for the club.