LEESBURG, Va. – Loudoun United FC announced on Thursday the club had signed midfielder James Murphy to a two-year contract ahead of the 2026 USL Championship season. The transaction is pending league and federation approval.

Murphy joins Loudoun having most recently competed in the USL Championship with Indy Eleven during the 2025 season. A versatile and experienced midfielder, Murphy has made 162 appearances and logged 12,099 minutes in the Championship’s regular season since making his debut in the 2018 campaign for Las Vegas Lights FC.

“I am delighted that we have secured the signing of James. He brings valuable experience in the USL Championship, having played for a variety of clubs,” said Loudoun Head coach Anthony Limbrick. “His defensive midfield qualities, combined with his ability on the ball when in possession, will fit perfectly with the way we want to play here at Loudoun United FC.”

A native of Scotch Plains, N.J., Murphy began his professional career in England, signing with Sheffield Wednesday in 2016, and making his First-Team debut later that year in the EFL Cup. He returned to the United States in 2018, joining Los Angeles FC ahead of the club’s inaugural MLS season and later gaining USL Championship experience on loan with Las Vegas Lights FC.

Since then, Murphy has recorded two goals, 19 assists and 185 chances created while competing for Rio Grande Valley FC, Monterey Bay FC and Detroit City FC prior to his arrival at Indy last season. The 28-year-old has also averaged 5.5 recoveries/90 minutes and won 52.8 percent of duels in the league defensively.

“I’m really thrilled and extremely grateful to be joining Loudoun United FC for the next couple of years. I can’t wait to get down there and give my all for the Red-And-White from day one,” said Murphy. “I know there’s some exciting times ahead for the club and it is a blessing to get to be a part of it. I’m really looking forward to getting involved in the community, and giving everything I’ve got for all our supporters at Segra Field. See everyone out there soon!”

“James brings significant and successful USL Championship experience, which is important as we continue building a clear club identity,” said Loudoun Sporting Director Alen Marcina. “He understands the demands of the league and provides reliability in the center of the park, along with the professionalism, intensity, and team-first mentality that align with the standards we’re establishing at Loudoun United.”