Feb 14, 2020
LAFC signs striker veteran Wright-Phillips
Los Angeles FC has signed veteran Major League Soccer striker Bradley Wright-Phillips. LAFC announced the move Friday. The defending Supporters' Shield winners begin CONCACAF Champions League play next week.
The Canadian Press
Los Angeles FC has signed veteran Major League Soccer striker Bradley Wright-Phillips.
LAFC announced the move Friday. The defending Supporters' Shield winners begin CONCACAF Champions League play next week.
Wright-Phillips spent the past seven seasons with the New York Red Bulls, becoming the eighth-leading goal-scorer overall and the top European goal-scorer in league history with 108 goals in 195 MLS appearances. He won the Golden Boot as MLS' top goal-scorer in 2014 and 2016.
The south London native made his pro debut with Manchester City in 2004. He will turn 35 years old next month.
The Red Bulls parted ways with Wright-Phillips after he scored only two goals in 29 appearances last year.
LAFC invited Wright-Phillips for a trial last month, and the club's need for a backup striker increased when Adama Diomande was sidelined into the regular season with a foot injury.
LAFC general manager John Thorrington said Wright-Phillips “can be a difference-maker for us. He brings invaluable experience to the group as a proven winner in our league.”
MLS Most Valuable Player Carlos Vela is back as LAFC's starting forward. Wright-Phillips set the MLS record by scoring 27 goals in the 2014 season, but the mark has since been broken by three players including Vela, who scored 34 last year.
LAFC visits Mexico's Club León on Tuesday and hosts the second leg on Feb. 27, three days before its MLS regular season opener against Inter Miami.
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