Kevin Ellis started Sporting Kansas City's first five matches across all competitions and scored the game-winner in the home leg of their CONCACAF Champions League quarterfinal. So why send him on loan to one of Sporting's USL PRO affiliates now?
Part of it is a matter of minutes, manager Peter Vermes said. Regular right back Chance Myers has returned to full-90 fitness from a preseason groin strain, Vermes rarely makes in-game subs at fullback, and Monday's loan to Oklahoma City Energy FC gives Ellis a chance to stay match fit in case he's needed again.
The other part is that Energy coach Jimmy Nielsen, who retired as Sporting's goalkeeper after their MLS Cup victory last December, could use the help at fullback.
“I think it's important for him to play games,” Vermes told MLSsoccer.com after Tuesday's training session. “Jimmy and I talked, and he has a need, and it wound up being a good choice for him. He's been with us for a long time, and he needs to get games. So it was really about that.”
Ellis, a Homegrown player now in his fourth professional season, joins midfielder Christian Duke and goalkeeper Jon Kempin on loan to Oklahoma City's first-year club.
With the loan of Ellis, who like any loanee can be recalled at any time, new arrival Igor Juliao can provide depth at right back as he continues to learn Sporting's system.
“We brought Igor here because we think that he can help us in our team,” Vermes said. “So he's here, and I think him getting indoctrinated every day into what we do is an important aspect. That's why he's here.”
Steve Brisendine covers Sporting Kansas City for MLSsoccer.com.
