CINCINNATI, OH --- Defender Harrison Delbridge has come to terms with Melbourne City Football Club and was officially introduced today by the Australian club.
The move enables the 2016 USL first-team choice to return to his native country as well as create opportunities for the 25-year old to showcase his talents with the hope of earning a spot on the Australian National Team for the upcoming World Cup.
“We worked hard over the last year to re-sign Harrison for the 2018 season, but ultimately the opportunity to return home to play in the first division and potentially his national team was too great to pass up given his professional ambitions,” said FCC President and General Manager Jeff Berding. “We respect his decision and wish him all the best in the next chapter of his professional career.”
“We are excited for Harrison that he has received this opportunity to return home. We are supportive of his move and are delighted that he will be able to put himself in the shop window for the Australian national team on a weekly basis,” said Head Coach Alan Koch.
Delbridge, a four-time Team of the Week awardee with the Orange and Blue, was a key figure in the FCC defense. Making 30 starts this season, Delbridge was recognized on SportsCenter’s Top 10 for a goal-saving clearance against Ottawa Fury FC and led the team with 147 clearances and 123 interceptions. On the offensive end, Delbridge scored three and tied for second with three assists.
