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NASL Minnesota United FC

Minnesota United Adds Jamaican International Midfielder Lance Laing

December 15, 2015 - North American Soccer League (NASL)
Minnesota United FC News Release


MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. - Minnesota United added another potent weapon to its record-setting offense today with the signing of Jamaican international midfielder and North American Soccer League veteran Lance Laing. As per league and team policy, the terms of the deal have not been made public.

"We're excited to get a player that we've played against for many years in the NASL," said Sporting Director Manny Lagos. "Seeing his growth from when he was at Fort Lauderdale to last season in Edmonton gives us the belief that he will continue to grow and excel. As a player, he always presented us with challenges to play against and we're just really excited to have a player like that on the roster."

The 27-year-old has played in every NASL season since the modern-era league formed in 2011, and is the only player to be named to the NASL Best XI three times. He is tied for 15th and tied for third in all-time goals and assists respectively. The speedy left-footed playmaker has been the driving force for FC Edmonton the past three seasons.

"He's a powerful left-footed player who strikes a really good ball, both from set pieces and within the run of play," said Lagos. "He can get up and down the line, he's had experience playing both left back and left midfield and sometimes in the proper system left winger. Ultimately he's got a versatility about him that can make him and our club very dangerous."

The Trelawny Parish native has made several appearances for the Jamaican National Team during his career. After an impressive run with the U17 team, Laing made his first senior team appearance in 2008 against El Salvador. He most recently played in the 2015 Copa America, where he started against Lionel Messi and Argentina, and the 2015 Gold Cup, helping Jamaica to a historic second place finish behind Mexico.

Laing began his professional career in 2007 when he signed for Harbour View FC in the Jamaican top flight. After three seasons with the club, Laing moved to second division Jamaican side Village United FC, where he scored three goals in his one season with the club.

The Fort Lauderdale Strikers signed Laing prior to the 2011 NASL season, bringing him on as a defender. Laing led the Strikers on a strong run in the regular season and made a push in the playoffs that landed them a spot in the Soccer Bowl where they were defeated by Minnesota. Laing played two years with the Strikers, netting two goals in 44 appearances.

Laing then traveled north to sign with FC Edmonton for the 2013 season. Another solid defensive year gave earned him the honor of Team MVP, voted on by supporters. A season of transition for Laing, in 2014 he made the switch from defense to midfield. It proved to be an excellent fit as he led the Eddies with seven goals and was second in the league in assists with six.

2015 was another banner year for Laing, who was a top-ten goalscorer in the League and tied for second in assists. He was the only player not on a playoff team to be named to the Best XI that year.

"It's an honor to be joining a team that has so many great players and great coaches, its going to be a great team to be a part of," said Laing. "I'm very happy to be cheered on by Dark Clouds and their fans, I have always felt playing here, that Minnesota fans are the best in the League and I can't wait to be on the right side of their cheers!"

With the addition of Laing, the 2016 Loon roster will be comprised of six of the 2015 NASL Best XI winners: Kevin Venegas, Justin Davis, Ibson, Lance Laing, Stefano Pinho and Christian Ramirez.

"It's going to be a challenge, there is going to be a lot of competition for spots," said Laing on joining a formidable roster of all-star talent. "I'm just going to go out there to prove myself and work to be a part of this group. I know everyone on this roster will be pushing each other and we will be a better team because of it."

Cheer on Laing when he takes the field for United in 2016 by securing your season tickets today. Get benefits such as early seat selection, exclusive merchandise, special events, and MLS stadium priority. Call 763.4SOCCER or visit MNUnitedFC.com/tickets to get your seats today.

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