Reigning MLS Cup champions Columbus Crew SC just made a major addition to their already efficient attack. The club signed two-time MLS Golden Boot winner Bradley Wright-Phillips, announcing the move via social media on Wednesday.
Wright-Phillips spent the 2020 MLS season with LAFC, scoring eight goals and adding six assists in just 18 games. This ended up earning him the MLS Comeback Player of the Year Award.
Despite his stellar performances, however, LAFC decided to decline the club option that would keep Wright-Phillips on the team for 2021.
But the 35-year-old star wasn’t on the free-agent market for too long, as Columbus quickly jumped on the opportunity to get a proven scorer and add depth up front.
“We are thrilled that Bradley has chosen to join Crew SC as we look to build off of our 2020 MLS Cup title and continue to contend for trophies headed into 2021,” said Crew’s general manager Tim Bezbatchenko. “As one of the most proficient strikers in our league over the last decade, Bradley brings valuable veteran experience to our attacking corps, and we look forward to his contributions.”
Wright-Phillips spent the early part of his career in native England, where he played with Manchester City, Southampton, Charlton Athletic, and others as well. He came to the MLS in 2013, signing with New York Red Bulls.
He then went on to spend seven years in New York, establishing himself as one of the best scorers in the league’s history. He played 195 games for the Red Bulls, scoring an impressive 108 goals while adding 28 assists.
Wright-Phillips won the MLS Golden Boot in 2014 and 2016 while also earning two MLS All-Star nods and two MLS Best XI selections.
