Former Trinidad international Marlon Rojas is set to make his much-anticipated Bermuda Hogges' debut in their demanding double-header against Wilmington Hammerheads, writes Stephen Wright.
Rojas' eligibility serves as a timely boost for coach Kyle Lightbourne whose team could go top of the table tonight for the first time in the franchise's history if they beat Hammerheads and other results go their way.
The 29-year-old boasts an impressive football resumé having graced the MLS with Real Salt Lake and was a virtual ever-present during the Soca Warriors' history-making 2006 World Cup qualifying campaign.
Agonisingly for Rojas, he was robbed a place in the squad for Germany after he lost his contract at Real Salt Lake due to the number of matches he was missing while on international duty.
He almost joined Hogges last season on the recommendation of Somerset Trojans assistant coach Brian Iris, who spotted Rojas while playing for Somerset Eagles in the First Division, but the proposed move eventually broke down.
However, team president Shaun Goater is thrilled to have him onboard for this season and has been impressed with the ex-Atlanta Silverbacks player's touch and vision in training.
"Marlon has excellent awareness, vision and a calmness on the ball and we're delighted to have him onboard," said Goater. "He's a terrific player and you can tell straight away that he's played at a higher level.
"Once he's in full flow for us I think he will be an excellent addition. He's been quiet so far but he's still getting to know the rest of the boys.
"He's still a young guy so maybe this could be the start of a professional comeback for him."
Hogges play Hammerheads tonight at 8 p.m. and on Sunday at 7 p.m. Both games will be held at the National Sports Centre.