CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The Charlotte Independence announced on Friday the club has signed veteran striker Dominic Oduro, pending league and federation approval. In his 16-year MLS career, the Ghanaian international has scored 63 goals, added 32 assists and appeared in 346 regular-season matches.

“I’m excited to be here and can’t wait to interact with the fans and put my veteran leadership into the team to help the club grow and get better,” said Oduro. “I think with the qualities I have I’ll be able to help lead the team to a championship.”

Oduro’s illustrious MLS journey has made stops with FC Dallas, New York Red Bulls, Houston Dynamo, Chicago Fire, Columbus Crew, Toronto FC, Montreal Impact, and San Jose Earthquakes. In 2013, he recorded a career-high 13 goals with the Crew. Oduro’s speed consistently made him one of the fastest players in Major League Soccer, and is an attribute new Independence Head Coach Jim McGuinness is looking to exploit this season.

“Pace is really important for our wingers and through the middle,” said McGuinness. “Dominic is a player that adds a lot of experience and quality. He adds a dynamic element to the game plan and asks a lot of questions to the backline.”

Oduro had his first slice during his collegiate career at Virginia Commonwealth University. Oduro recorded 18 goals and five assists in 41 appearances for the Rams on his way to being named 2004 Colonial Athletic Player of the Year and Third-Team All-American. In 2004, Oduro scored 16 goals in 13 matches for USL League Two side Richmond Kickers Future. He would go on to be selected 22nd overall in the 2006 MLS SuperDraft by FC Dallas.