The MetroStars have released midfielder Nino Da Silva, it was announced today by general manager Nick Sakiewicz. Da Silva, who appeared in three games (25 minutes) this season, came over to the club last November via the 1999 MLS waiver draft from the Kansas City Wizards.

"Nino is a good player, but with the arrival of Daniel Hernandez in the middle, his playing time would have diminished even further," said Sakiewicz. "We have made this move now, rather than later, in order to afford Nino a better opportunity to catch onto another club."

The 5-7, 140 lb. speedy midfielder played three seasons with the Kansas City Wizards, appearing in a season-high eight games last season. In 1997, he became the youngest player ever to suit-up in the MLS at 18 years and 3 months, when he played at DC on August 31, 1997.

Da Silva, a native of Santos, Brazil, has played for the U.S. Pro-40 (1998-99), and the now-defunct Orlando Sundogs (1997) of the USL. He has also played for the U.S. Under-20 National Team, and in 1998, he appeared in 24 games registering nine goals and one assist.