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FC Edmonton

FC Edmonton Adds English Defender Eckersley to Fold

January 28, 2016 - North American Soccer League (NASL)
FC Edmonton News Release


EDMONTON, AB - FC Edmonton announced, Jan. 28, the signing of defender Adam Eckersley. As per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Eckersley, 30, a native of Salford, UK and product of Manchester United's youth program, will join an Eddies back line which posted one of the North American Soccer League's (NASL) best Goals Against Average down the stretch run of the 2015 Fall Season. The left back brings a wealth of professional experience from stays in the Danish Premiership, Scottish Premiership and English Championship levels with clubs such as Bronby, Barnsley, Heart of Midlothian, Hibernian and others.

"When I first learnt that Adam was available I jumped at the chance," FC Edmonton head coach Colin Miller explained. "When Hearts gained promotion to the Premier League, Adam featured in almost every game. First of all, he is a natural left back, an attack-minded player, very aggressive and has had a terrific career in Europe. I believe he will be a fantastic addition to our squad."

Eckersley spent his youth career with Manchester United, crossing paths with current Eddie Ritchie Jones. In 2004, Eckersley signed his first professional contract with the Red Devils before heading out on loan with several clubs. From 2001-03, the England native was also a member of his country's U-16, U-17 and U-18 national teams.

"Having spoken to him a number of times now, I feel there is a leader within Adam Eckersley," Miller added. "Interestingly enough, Adam and his family want to live in Canada. I think that in itself speaks volumes that he is really keen to come to Edmonton. Ritchie Jones actually put me on to him and since then we've managed to work out a deal that suits both parties. I'm very excited about Adam, I think he is a fabulous signing."

Eckersley and the Eddies kick off the 2016 NASL campaign, April 2 against Rayo OKC before returning home to face Minnesota United FC at Clarke Field, April 10. Season tickets are available for purchase by clicking HERE or by calling 780.700.2600. For more information, please visit www.fcedmonton.com.

FC Edmonton also announced Thursday that the club and midfielder Michael Nonni have agreed to part ways amicably prior to the start of the 2016 season. The Eddies wish Michael all the best in his future.

Current FC Edmonton 2016 Roster:

Goalkeepers

Matt VanOekel, Tyson Farago, Nathan Ingham

Defenders

Mallan Roberts, Marko Aleksic, Allan Zebie, Johann Smith, Albert Watson, Eddie Edward, Adam Eckersley

Midfielders

Cristian Raudales, Ritchie Jones, Pablo Cruz, Dustin Corea, Sainey Nyassi, Nik Ledgerwood, Gustavo Salgueiro

Forwards

Sadi Jalali, Tomi Ameobi, Jake Keegan, Daryl Fordyce

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North American Soccer League Stories from January 28, 2016


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