The 2017 USL 20 Under 20 countdown kicks off with a trio of U.S. U20 National Team players who cut their teeth in the USL, and two midfield standouts who have shone this season in the Western Conference.
Photo courtesy Sam Ortega / Portland Timbers 2
- First professional goal for Charleston Battery after turning pro during 2016 season
- Two goals at the 2017 FIFA U20 World Cup for the United States
- No. 4 selection in the 2017 MLS SuperDraft by the Portland Timbers
TopDrawerSoccer.com Scouting Report
As a talented left-footed forward, Ebobisse has the tools to excel in professional soccer, boasting a big frame and nose for a goal required to succeed. A classic No. 9, Ebobisse’s finish against New Zealand demonstrated his best traits on the field: receiving the ball with his back to goal, turning and finishing with aplomb. Due to his U20 World Cup duties, Ebobisse has been limited in his appearances domestically this season, but he should continue to work his way onto the field with the abilities he possesses. As he adjusts to better, more physical defenders than he faced in the PDL and college ranks, more scoring opportunities should come the way of the former Duke standout.
Photo courtesy Matt May / Tampa Bay Rowdies
- Made professional debut for Orlando in the USL in 2014
- Two appearances for the United States at the FIFA U20 World Cup
- 50 professional appearances in the USL and Major League Soccer
TopDrawerSoccer.com Scouting Report
A quick, athletic defender, Redding is yet another intriguing center back who has continued to improve since turning pro all the way back in 2014 when Orlando City SC was part of the USL. Redding's come along leaps and bounds, and at his best has the ability to slow opposition attackers before they make inroads. If he's caught out of position, Redding has also shown the ability to make up ground and recover. Even with all the pro experience under his belt, he's still improving on the field, becoming a more consistent defender capable of shutting down the best players in North America when he's fit and in form.
Photo courtesy Lori Scholl / Tulsa Roughnecks FC
- Professional debut for Louisville City FC in June, 2015
- Scored first professional goal on June 27 vs. Swope Park Rangers
- Former U.S. U20 International; Chicago Fire Homegrown Player
TopDrawerSoccer.com Scouting Report
It’s been a long time coming, but Collin Fernandez’s loan to Tulsa has led to something of a breakthrough for the Fire Homegrown signing. Deployed in a deeper midfield role instead of an attacking midfield spot, Fernandez has been able to adjust to the USL and let his passing ability shine. Fernandez is in the top five for Tulsa’s passes and passing percentage, as the move deeper in the lineup allows him to get on the ball and help his side transition from attack to defense. While he’s more of a slight build, the experience this season has shown that he can stamp his authority against bigger, older players.
Photo courtesy Mark Guthrel / Saint Louis FC
- Made debut for Steel FC as Academy signing in 2016 season
- Has recorded 29 starts for Bethlehem Steel FC over two seasons in USL
- One goal in two appearances for United States at 2017 FIFA U20 World Cup
TopDrawerSoccer.com Scouting Report
Young center backs continue to speed through the U.S. pipeline, with Trusty ready to follow suit in the ever-deepening position. He's seen some time at left back with the U.S. youth national teams, though given his makeup and abilities, he is best suited to play centrally. Listed at 6-foot-3, the raw tools are there, whether it's a question of having the agility and speed to keep up with bigger, stronger attackers. Like other players his age, playing time is key at present. The more challenges he faces on the field, the more he can improve and sharpen for Steel FC or the Philadelphia Union.
First appearance in the #U20WC, first goal just minutes later.
— Philadelphia Union (@PhilaUnion) June 1, 2017
What a strike, @austheboss3. #JoinOrDie pic.twitter.com/PkzHYKbRts
Photo courtesy David Calvert / Reno 1868 FC
- Two-time Pac-12 All-Conference First Team at UCLA
- 10 chances created in six appearances for Reno 1868 FC
- Made MLS debut for San Jose Earthquakes on June 17
TopDrawerSoccer.com Scouting Report
Splitting time between Reno 1868 FC and the San Jose Earthquakes in 2017 has been valuable for Yueill, who needs to pick up as much experience as he can at the pro level to get the most out of his skill set. A supreme passer of the ball, he has the unique ability to open the field with a vast passing range. Not only that, but he can get himself into dangerous positions in and around the penalty area to create chances. Consistency is now the task ahead of him, showing he can thrive on a regular basis at this level.