Kansas City, Kan. ? Midfielder Graham Zusi has signed a new contract with Sporting Kansas City after putting together a breakout season in which he scored five goals and added nine assists.

The 25-year-old Zusi also had a career-best 35 appearances while gaining a reputation for his long-range goals. His strong MLS campaign earned him a spot on the U.S. men’s national team, where he started in each of his first two international appearances last month.

Zusi had the eventual winning goal in the U.S. team’s 1-0 victory over Panama.

The former second-round draft pick said the culture of Sporting KC had a lot to do with his new contract: “The culture, fans, atmosphere and organization are top-notch, and our objectives are the same, to win championships.”