ST. PETERSBURG – The Tampa Bay Rowdies have ended 2020 with two new signings picking up midfielders Luiz Fernando and Dayonn Harris on the last two days of the year.
Fernando comes in from Atlanta United 2, he has signed a one year contract with a club option for a second year.
“Luiz will get the fans off their seats with his direct attacking style and ability to create opportunities. While he is most at home on the left wing, expect to see Luiz anywhere on the line this year with his versatility.”
Rowdies Head Coach Neil Collins
In 2019 the Brazilian midfielder played 27 matches for Atlanta United 2, scoring twice and laying off four assists. He played three years with the Richmond Kickers before heading down to Georgia.
He has had a discipline problem, having earned 5 yellows and a red in 2019 which definitely hurt the Atlanta reserves. 2020 saw his career stall a little so he’ll be looking forward to a restart at Al Lang Stadium.
Harris joins the team after playing 2020 for Real Monarchs following being selected in the MLS SuperDraft by Real Salt Lake.
“I first saw Dayonn play for UConn against the University of South Florida and have followed his progress since then,” said Rowdies Head Coach Neill Collins. “I believe Dayonn is a perfect fit for our club. First off, he has all the physical and technical attributes to play wide in our side, but even more importantly, he has the appetite to improve and succeed. As we have shown with players like Jordan Doherty and Juan Tejada, we are committed to finding young talent and giving them the platform to perform.”
2020 was Harris’ first professional season and he managed 14 appearances and 11 starts. The young Canadian could be a good outlet for the Rowdies, managing 45 crosses this season.
Photo: Richmond Kickers
Florida Soccer Report 