Republic make pair of signings

Sacramento Republic FC made a pair of signings on Thursday. The first was in the morning, when they announced that English forward, Harry Williams, will be returning for the 2017 USL season. The second, made in the afternoon, was the addition of Salinas native and former Louisville City FC defender Enrique Montano for the 2017 season.

Republic Head Coach and Technical Director Paul Buckle had this to say about Williams re-signing in a team press release.

Finalizing arrangements with Harry for the 2017 season is a good start for us. He is young and very talented and I think he showed that last season. We saw enough last year to seal his return, and we believe that he will be even better next season.

Republic fans will likely agree with Buckle’s assessment by and large. Although he was ineffective at times, Williams showcased his talent and potential throughout the 2016 season by scoring four goals in 22 appearances. The Prince of Quails (as he is semi-regularly called thanks to ICS community member Left Foot) also drew approximately one million fouls during his 980 minutes on the field.

The signing of Montano is no less important for next year’s success. Montano appeared in 32 games over two seasons with Louisville City FC, mostly in the 2015 season. During that time he recorded six assists, third-most of any Louisville player during that time period. He was also won the USL’s Fan-Favorite Player award in 2015.

Paul Buckle had this to say in a team press release.

Enrique is a young player who, at just 23-years-old, is beyond his years technically with the ball at his feet. When he became available, we reached out. After speaking with him, we learned of his desire to return to California, and I feel that he is right for the club. He knows the area, knows the club and has a very good left foot. His ability to deliver the ball will be a great asset for us as we move into next season.

Judging by Buckle’s comments, it seems as though Montano will slot in at fullback for Republic next season, where he played most often for his former team. His official bio on the Louisville City FC team site, which describes him as an “attack-minded fullback”, should give Republic fans confidence that he will fit right in with how the team uses its outside backs.

What are your thoughts about the Republic’s roster moves today? Sound off in the comments below!