And now, a second generation of New York Cosmos has joined the reincarnated franchise.

New Jersey native Alecko Eskandarian once stood on the sidelines watching his father at Giants Stadium train alongside the likes of Giorgio Chinaglia and Franz Beckenbauer. Now, he joins the fledgling Cosmos as Giovanni Savarese’s first Assistant Coach.

“I am delighted to welcome Alecko back into the Cosmos family” the Cosmos head coach said. “Alecko is the perfect addition to my coaching staff. Alecko grew up with the Cosmos and understands the club and I look forward to working with him.”

For those who are not aware, Alecko is the son of former Cosmos great Andranik Eskandarian. The Armenian centerback featured through six seasons with the team (’78-84) while appearing in 184 matches.

The younger Eskandarian is an MLS veteran and former number one draft pick. He became a fixture with D.C. United, helping the club win the 2004 MLS Cup and earning Cup MVP honors for his efforts. He built a respectable seven year career in the league which was cut short due to concussion issues.

He most recently served as Youth Technical Director with the Philadelphia Union; a position Savarese feels will give him a leg up on his new role with the Cosmos. “Along with his excellent playing career, Alecko has good coaching experience already,” he said. “I feel he has what it takes to be a top level coach.”