Jermaine Jones Vows To Kick Butt In Leadership Role With Revolution

Jermaine Jones has no qualms about doing what he does best.

The New England Revolution unveiled Jones as their newest player Tuesday. Jones said in a press conference that he plans to lead by example and take more drastic measures (if necessary) in order to help his new teammates improve their performances and results.

“Who knows me knows I’m not a guy who likes to lose. So maybe I have to kick someone in his (rear) — only in a good way,” Jones joked, according to the Boston Globe.

Revolution head coach Jay Heaps then called Jones’ comment, “a perfect response.”

The Revolution acquired Jones on Sunday after winning a “blind draw” Major League Soccer conducted for his rights. The Chicago Fire publicly courted the U.S. midfield star in recent weeks, and many believed he wanted to play for Chicago over any other team.

Jones dispelled rumors that he was unhappy to have landed in New England.

“A lot of people (said) I was saying I wanted to play in Chicago — I said that was not true, I already said that on my Twitter,” Jones said. “New England Revolution pushed so bad that they want me, and you have that feeling that somebody is really interested and pushed it so far. I would say I would go to New England.”

Jones hasn’t played a competitive game since July 1 — when the United States lost to Belgium in the Round of 16 at the 2014 FIFA World Cup. Jones practiced with the Revolution on Tuesday and hopes to make his Revolution debut as soon as possible.

“It was like a long holiday for me, and now I’m happy I can go back on the pitch,” Jones said. “I’m ready to go, and I hope the coach will push me and push me (so) that I’ll be ready for the game in Toronto (on Saturday).

The Revolution hope Jones will spark a late-season revival, which will help them qualify for the MLS Cup playoffs. The Revs have 10 games remaining in the season. Jones’ time is now.