MIAMI – The Miami FC announced on Tuesday the club had signed defender Benjamin Ofeimu, pending league and federation approval. Ofeimu expands Head Coach Anthony Pulis’ defensive options ahead of the 2022 USL Championship season, having made 61 regular season appearances in the league over his first three professional seasons.

“Ben is center back that’s had plenty of experience in USL Championship for such a young age,” said Pulis. “Most young defenders in this country are coming out of college very raw at 21 years of age whereas we’re getting someone with around 60 pro games under his belt. This means he already knows what it takes to play at the level, whilst still being in a position where he can continue to keep improving and developing with us.

“He’s a big physical presence who is dominant in the air, strong and comfortable on the ball. He compliments the other three center backs we currently have in our group very well.”

Originally from West Bloomfield, Mich., Ofeimu spent the past season with fellow USL Championship club Birmingham Legion FC. The 6-foot-3-inch defender made 15 appearances, started 11 games and played a total of 924 minutes, helping Legion FC record five clean sheets in the process.

Prior to joining Birmingham, Ofeimu spent the 2020 Championship season with the Philadelphia Union II. He appeared in nine matches, started eight games and played 720 minutes. Ofeimu had previously signed his first professional contract with the Union II in January 2019. Despite only being a teenager, he played 27 matches, scored two goals and dished out two assists.

“I’m looking forward to being in the city, getting to know the team and the fans,” said Ofeimu. “I can’t wait to get started and hopefully we will achieve great things this year.”