Independence sign outside back Denzel Akyeampong

PHOTO | CHARLOTTE INDEPENDENCE

Defender Denzel Akyeampong, who trained with the Charlotte Independence in the spring, returned to the USL League One club last week after signing a contract.

The Charlotte Independence have signed defender Denzel Akyeampong.

Akyeampong, who trained with the USL League One club during preseason sessions, returned to Charlotte from Fox Soccer Academy in England where he was part of the FSA PRO scholarship program which competes in the top U16-U19 youth competitions in the United Kingdom.

“I’m excited to join the Independence and can’t wait to play with a quality group of lads,” Akyeampong said in a statement.

In April, Akyeampong was named Man of the Match in the FSA PRO London’s EFCA national semifinal match, leading the team to the national finals. The defender has previously participated in trials with West Bromwich Albion U23s in England and Denmark club AB Fodbold.

“We are excited to add Denzel to our roster – another young player we believe has a huge potential upside,” Independence coach Mike Jeffries said. “As an outside back, Denzel is capable of creating in the final third off the dribble or in combination and has the ability to create and finish chances. He possesses exceptional pace and physicality, especially for his age, as well as strong competitive instincts.”

• The Independence and in-state rival North Carolina FC will square off in the third Dogwood Derby June 30 at WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary. Kickoff is 7 p.m. kickoff. Both teams are tied with a USL League One best 23 points with NCFC holding a game in-hand.

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