English League Championship side Leeds United FC have signed US National Team and former Columbus Crew midfielder Robbie Rogers, according to Leeds' website. The 24-year-old Rogers had been on trial with the club and will now join on a permanent basis. The deal is subject to Rogers securing a UK work permit.
Leeds United Signs Robbie Rogers, Waits On Work Permit
The 24-year-old Rogers joins Leeds but this deal is pending a work permit.
“He has been playing in the MLS where he has done well, he wants to continue his career in Europe, and we believe he will make an impact here,” said Leeds manager Simon Grayson.
“As soon the work permit business is complete he will be an immediate part of our plans and have an opportunity with the first team.”
Should Rogers get the work permit, he will be able to provide the much needed depth on the wings for Leeds. Currently the club has two solid options on the flank in Robert Snodgrass and Andros Townsend. Snodgrass is a lock to start while Townsend is on loan from Tottenham. Rogers might not start right away for Leeds but he should be able to push for plenty of playing time.
Rogers becomes the third American to join Leeds behind current United striker Mike Grella and former national team player Eddie Lewis.
Generally speaking, a player must have appeared in 75 percent of his national team’s competitive games during the past two years -- a mark Rogers is well short of -- to be granted a work permit. Lacking that experience, Rogers will have to win an appeal in order to get his work permit.
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