Returning core includes Asiedu, Crognale, Dean, Kasim, Kavita, Lopez, Martinez, Santos, VanOekel
BIRMINGHAM, AL (Dec. 8, 2022) – Birmingham Legion FC today announced the return of key players ahead of the 2023 USL Championship season.
In addition to the new contracts signed in recent weeks by Alex Crognale, Phanuel Kavita, Mikey Lopez, and Trevor Spangenberg, Legion FC exercised options on Mataeo Bunbury, Grayson Dupont, Prosper Kasim, Jake Rufe, Marlon Santos, and Matt VanOekel.
The list of players returning on existing contracts includes Anderson Asiedu, Matthew Corcoran, Jonny Dean, and Enzo Martinez.
“Roster decisions are always difficult to make, said Legion FC President and GM Jay Heaps. “But, we are looking forward to the return of a strong group of core players and to adding players that will make us stronger in 2023.”
Options were declined by the Club on Sadik Balarabe, Edi Horvat, and Ryan James. Zach Herivuax had a player option to return but chose to decline it. Juan Agudelo and Bruno Lapa are out of contract, and negotiations are ongoing for a potential return to Birmingham for Agudelo.
Returnees include 2022 USL Championship All-League First Team selection and Golden Boot Winner in Martinez, 2022 USLC All-League Second Teamer in Dean, 2021 Goalkeeper of the Year Finalist, All-League Second Team selection, and Legion FC Defensive Player of the Year in VanOekel, 2021 Defender of the Year in Kavita and 2020 USLC All-League Second Teamer and team Defender of the Year in Crognale.
2023 Legion FC Season Tickets are available now! Fans looking to purchase or find more information can do so at bhmlegion.com/2023tickets or are encouraged to email tickets@bhmlegion.com or call the Legion FC Ticket Office at 205-791-7145.
For team updates throughout the offseason, like upcoming new player signings, follow @bhmlegion on social media, sign up for Legion FC’s Newsletter, or visit bhmlegion.com. The Legion FC app is also available for download via Apple or Android.
