May 18, 2010

Former UK men’s soccer standout Jason Griffiths is set to take the field with the New England Revolution in a friendly Wednesday night against Portuguese Liga champions SL Benfica.

Griffiths, 23, was selected by the Revolution in the third round (48th overall) of the 2010 MLS SuperDraft, but chose to remain in school and finish his degree before joining the Revs for training. A native of Bracknell, England, he started in all but one of his 65 career appearances at the University of Kentucky, recording 12 goals and 10 assists from his defensive midfield position.

“It’s a great opportunity for Griff to play against World Class players and prove his abilities at the top professional level,” said UK head coach Ian Collins. “It should be a great night for him and the start of an outstanding pro career.”

Benfica, founded in 1904, just completed its 2009-10 season, winning the Portuguese Liga for a record 33rd time, which has qualified them for the UEFA Champions League in the 2010-11 season. The club also boasts 24 Portuguese Cup titles and back-to-back Portuguese League Cups, including the 2009-10 championship. Benfica has also won two UEFA European Cups, which is now the UEFA Champions League, and earned a runner-up finish five other seasons.

Kickoff is set for 8:00 p.m. ET.