While Orange County SC fans eagerly await news on an announcement on a new defender or keeper, it seems County are busy strengthening their midfield. It was announced today by AFC Wimbledon, and confirmed by Orange County SC, that midfielder Liam Trotter would be joining OCSC. The signing will provide competition for a very deep midfield that includes Aodhan Quinn, Christian Duke, Charlie Adams, Koji Hashimoto, and Sebastian Des Pres, along with others who can play in the midfield such as Harry Forrester or Connor Gordon.

Trotter has played his entire career in England’s lower leagues. His most recent stint was with AFC Wimbledon, where he appeared in 70 matches while scoring 4 goals. According to the press release by AFC Wimbledon, Trotters first-team opportunities had become limited, and his desire for playing time, along with an opportunity to play in America, is the reason for his move.

“However, with his first-team opportunities having been limited recently, Liam decided that a chance to play football in America was the right opportunity for him. The 30-year-old has therefore signed for United Soccer League side Orange County SC, a club where former Don Harry Forrester also plays his football. “

Upon hearing this news, we reached out to our friend Chris of 9yrspodcast to learn more about Trotter, and lets just say the news wasn’t encouraging.

“Not a popular player round these parts...he's sleep walked through 18 months with us (70 appearances, 2 goals) and, as you can probably see from the reaction to his departure on Twitter, no one is sad to see him leave. He used to be a good, solid player, but he lost his way with us, sadly.”

The big hope for Orange County is that the change of scenery, and more opportunities for playing time, will help revitalize Trotter’s career and in turn be a positive impact on a team that has high expectations in 2019. We have seen what playing time can do for a player in the past (Michael Season), and hopefully the front office staff has done their homework and have a plan in place to help motivate him. Coach Braeden Cloutier seems to think highly of Trotter, and what he can bring to the team.

“I am extremely happy that we have come to an agreement with Liam,” said OCSC Head Coach, Braeden Cloutier. “This offseason we knew we needed someone of his stature in our team. He has the power and presence that we’ve been looking for. His leadership & experience will be invaluable to our team”

What do you think of the signing? Let us know in the comments below.