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Scorpions Sign 2011 NASL Best XI Midfielder Shaun Saiko

November 26, 2013 - North American Soccer League (NASL)
San Antonio Scorpions News Release


SAN ANTONIO, TX - The San Antonio Scorpions have signed former FC Edmonton and 2011 NASL Best XI midfielder, Shaun Saiko, for the 2014 NASL season, Scorpions President and General Manager Howard Cornfield and Head Coach Alen Marcina announced on Tuesday.

Saiko joins Tomasz Zahorski as recent players to commit to the Scorpions for the 2014 season after spending the 2013 season with the Canadian club near his hometown.

"We are very excited to add an exceptionally talented attacking player with an eye for goal and the ability to create chances," said Marcina. "Shaun is a technically gifted player with vision on the pitch, and he has established a record of excellence in this league, setting goals and assists records at FC Edmonton."

The 24-year old Saiko was born in St. Albert, Canada and started his professional career in 2009 with Middlesborough FC of the English Football League Championship and made numerous appearances for their reserve squad. After leaving England, he joined his local club, FC Edmonton, and made 66 appearances with the side from 2011 to this past season. Saiko was named to the 2011 NASL Best XI and finished the 2012 season seven goals and six assists. In 2013, he scored two goals including a winner against the Scorpions in mid April.

"This is a great start towards the rebuilding of our team," said Cornfield. "Alen has some outstanding players he is targeting to play for us in 2014 and fans will be excited with upcoming signings."

Saiko has also represented his country by playing for Canada at the U-15, U-20 and U-23 levels. He was a part of the Canadian U-20 squad in the 2009 CONCACAF Championships as they were attempting to qualify for the U-20 FIFA World Cup. He has made six appearances, scoring one goal for the U-20's.

With the addition of Saiko and the retention of Zahorski, the Scorpions have kicked off their offseason under now permanent Head Coach, Marcina, as they prepare for the start of training camp in February.

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