The Fort Lauderdale Strikers welcome back a former player and say goodbye to another. Midfielder Gerson Mayen has rejoined the Strikers on loan from his MLS team, Chivas USA, while midfielder Lennon Celestino has left the team to return to his native Brazil for personal reasons.
“I’m happy I’m back,” said Mayen. “My goal is to get on the field and try to help out the team.”
“We are happy to have Gerson rejoin our team,” said Strikers Head Coach Daryl Shore. “He is a good, young player with MLS experience and will be a welcome addition to our midfield.”
Mayen played nine games, including five at home in Lockhart Stadium, with the Strikers last season when they were known as Miami FC.
“It was great meeting the fans last year, and hopefully I’ll get to see all of them again at Lockhart Stadium,” said Mayen.
Lennon Celestino played in six games for the Strikers, starting four, and playing 377 minutes this season before having to return home due to personal reasons.
“It’s sad to see Lennon have to go back to Brazil,” said Shore. “We thank him for his time with the team and wish him the best on his future.”
Celestino was part of the developmental squad at Desportivo Brasil before joining Miami FC for the 2010 season, where he made nine appearances.