NASL Preseason Tour | Training With The Eddies
Up next in the NASL Preseason Tour was Edmonton ahead of the club's own preseason trip to Manchester. The Eddies trained indoors at the Commonwealth Recreation Centre on what turned out to be a nice sunny day in the city.
Representing Canada
Among the FC Edmonton squad, the Canada national team setup is well represented. The Eddies currently have eight players from the nation, several of which have either made their senior national-team debut or have been on the verge - Nik Ledgerwood, Ben Fisk, Adam Straith, Mauro Eustaquio, Tyson Farago, Nathan Ingham, and Marko Aleksic.
That said, FC Edmonton coach Colin Miller isn't paying attention to a player's passport. When speaking Miller, now heading into his fifth season as coach, mentioned that it's all about bringing in the best talent available. Coincidentally, those signings have had a distinct Canadian flavor this offseason.
Goalkeeper Competition In Edmonton?
During the day, all three goalkeepers - Ingham, Farago, and Chris Konopka - all looked sharp. Miller mentioned that the veteran Konopka has been pushed throughout the preseason so far by the two returning Eddies shot-stoppers.
While Konopka may be the presumed first-choice 'keeper, the battle for the top spot between the posts will be one to watch.
Adding Important Pieces
The Eddies kept the majority of their squad together, but have added key signings to the mix as the club aims to return to the postseason. Signings from overseas like Netan Sansara and Dean Shiels add vast experience and ability to the team. Sabri Khattab could be an "unearthed gem" once he finds his footing with the club, noted Miller. Also coming aboard is Eustaquio and Konopka, while Straith has signed on for the Spring Season.
Year after year, FC Edmonton has steadily progressed and the expectations are certainly raised for the 2017 season. The new signings as well as the returnees will look to answer the call starting with the club's first game on April 2 against Jacksonville Armada FC.
Some of the new boys for @FCEdmontonNow. #MarchToNovember pic.twitter.com/LgsKd17CBz
— NASL (@naslofficial) March 3, 2017
