February 2, 2023 – United Soccer League One (USL1) – North Carolina FC News Release
CARY, N.C. – North Carolina FC announced today the club had signed defender Luke Croll for the 2023 USL League One season. The transaction is pending league and federation approval.
The 28-year-old English defender last played in the National League in England for Chesterfield FC in the 2021-22 season, where he made 12 appearances. Croll made three appearances in the FA Cup and started The Spireites third round match at Premier League giants Chelsea. The defender scored his lone professional goal in a 3-1 first round victory over Southend United.
“We are ecstatic to bring in a player of Luke’s quality and experience into North Carolina FC. He is a player that has a strong resume within English professional football, and I believe he will be a top defender in USL League One. Talking with Luke, I’m excited for what he will bring to our club, both on and off the field. He is in the prime of his career and intent on competing for championships, which aligns with our club’s vision for the 2023 season and the future,” said head coach John Bradford.
Croll has amassed 126 total professional appearances in England, including 45 matches in the EFL League Two for Exeter City and Plymouth Argyle. Croll spent the 2019-20 and 2020-21 seasons for Dagenham & Redbridge in the National League, making 51 league appearances.
Born in Lambeth, a district in south London, Croll joined the Crystal Palace academy as young kid. He was a key member in the Crystal Palace U21 team that won the U21 League 2 South in the 2014-15 season and was named to the matchday squad for a Premier League match in the 2015-16 season.
Croll’s signing brings the NCFC roster to 24 players on full-time professional contracts ahead of the 2023 season. He is the eighth defender on the roster, joining DJ Benton, Gustavo Fernandes, Max Flick, Nelson Flores Blanco, Britton Fischer, Christian Lue Young, and Daniel Navarro.
SEASON TICKETS: The 2023 North Carolina FC season is right around the corner. Season tickets are on sale now with great discounts, exclusive access to events and several incentives. Visit www.northcarolinafc.com/season-tickets for more information and ways to purchase.
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