Miami FC announces latest roster moves
April 13, 2009 - USL First Division (USL-1)
Fort Lauderdale Strikers News Release
Miami, April 13, 2009- Miami FC announced today new additions to its 2009 roster. The Blues rounded out their team by bringing back a core group of players and adding experience, youth, and an interesting blend of local talent.
"I think that with the little time we had, the roster that we have put together is solid. I like the mixture of experience and youth on the team," said General Manager Luiz Muzzi. "We have a strong foundation of players coming back and the new players we brought in will also play an important role for us."
Players Coming Back
Returning from Miami FC's 2008 campaign are defenders Chris Williams, Cristiano "Kaká" Dias, and Walter Ramirez; midfielders Jarryd Goldberg, John Pulido, and Leo Inacio; and forward Connally Edozien.
"I like players I can bring back, I know what their strengths and weaknesses are," said Head Coach Zinho. "This group coming back, I know how hard they work and I know they will work to get better, that's the type of players they are."
New Players
The new additions to Miami FC include ex-Puerto Rico Islander and current member of the El Salvadorian national team Edwin Miranda, and goalkeeper Pat Hannigan,who played for the Blues in 2007. The team has also come to terms with UNC's product Tim Merritt, ex-Atlanta Silverback Zach Kirby, Notre Dame's stand-out Jack Traynor, and ex-Columbus Crew goalkeeper Kenny Schoeni.
Local Players
Miami FC continues to show a commitment to local talent by signing four local players: Danny Vasquez, Nicky Torres, Richard Perdomo and Orlando Bueso all with deep roots in South Florida's soccer. Bueso is the all-time leading goal scorer in Copa Latina history. He has scored over 35 goals in the local Pro-Am tournament that has featured some of the most influential names in soccer over the past 17 years.
Open Tryouts
The Blues also signed Zourab "Zee" Tsiskaridze, a Georgian back/midfielder that traveled from France just to try out. "Zee" impressed the coaching staff with his composure on the pitch and understanding of the game. Four players received an invitation to try out with the team; Tsikaridze was the only one to receive a contract offer.
These signings come after Miami FC management announced the signings of former -Cuban national team members Pedro Faife and Reinier Alcantara, not to mention the reappearance of former Miami Fusion star, Colombian Diego Serna and the addition of one-time MLS All-Star, Argentinean Facundo Erpen.
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