IRVINE, Calif. – Orange County SC announced on Wednesday the return of defender Rob Kiernan for his third season at the club, with the English center back having served as a key piece in the club’s title-winning side in 2021.

“We are delighted to welcoming Rob, a true champion, back to Orange County,” said Orange County President of Soccer Oliver Wyss. “Rob’s experience and quality are an essential part of our team and we are looking forward to having him lead us on the pitch again!”

Kiernan joined Orange County prior to the abbreviated 2020 season and quickly became a mainstay in the center of the club’s defense. Over the past two seasons he has made 46 appearances over the regular season and playoffs, recording two goals and one assist while recording 71 interceptions, 206 clearances, a duel success rate of 58.4 percent, and an aerial duel success rate of 67 percent.

The 31-year-old had previously played for more than a decade in England and Scotland, including stints at Watford FC and Wigan Athletic before joining legendary Scottish club Rangers FC for two seasons between 2015-17. He also previously played for Ireland’s U-21 Men’s National Team and has accumulated more than 250 professional appearances in his career so far.