FC Dallas' Oduro gets a boost

Ghana native's move to senior roster comes with raise in pay

FRISCO – FC Dallas elevated forward Dominic Oduro to its senior roster, giving the Ghana native a boost in pay.

Oduro, who will earn about $30,000 a season, was earning $17,700 a year as an MLS developmental player.

"He had a great season so far and has played a lot of minutes," said FC Dallas coach Steve Morrow. "I think he deserves that opportunity."

Despite being paid like an intern, Oduro has scored three goals and has appeared in all but one FC Dallas' regular-season matches.

"I'm really excited," said Oduro, who was promoted after FC Dallas traded Ramon Nunez last week. "I think I worked hard for it. Everybody is telling me I deserved it"

Oduro said he plans to use his first check to buy a pair of glasses for his girlfriend. And future checks will go into furnishing his new apartment.

Even when Oduro earned a lower salary, he would send money to his parents in Ghana every month. He hasn't returned home in three years, waiting for the moment he could come back with bags filled with gifts.