[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he Columbus Crew announced today that via Major League Soccer’s weighted lottery, the club has signed midfielder Romain Gall. Gall, a dual-citizen of the United States and France, has agreed to terms with the Crew and will be immediately added to the roster pending receipt of his International Transfer Certificate.
“We feel that Romain is a young player with ability,” said Crew Sporting Director and Head Coach Gregg Berhalter. “He’s 19 years old, has great attacking ability and is a dynamic part of U.S. Soccer’s Youth National Team program. We feel that he’s a strong addition to our team, and we’re looking forward to bringing him in. We aim to be a club recognized for developing talented young players into successful professionals for their club and country.”
Gall returns to the U.S. after signing with France’s FC Lorient in 2011 and spending time with the club’s reserves, Lorient II. Making his debut in 2013, Gall made six substitute appearances in 2014 and scored his first professional goal on March 1 in a 4-0 win over La Vitréenne.
The 19-year old midfielder made his first appearance with the United States U-20 squad for coach Tab Ramos last November. He made his debut at 18 during a camp in which the U.S. beat Atalanta Primavera, 4-1, as Gall recorded a goal and an assist in the Americans’ victory.
Recently, Gall was named to a 20-player roster for the 2014 NTC Invitational Tournament in Carson, California from July 14-18. Prior to his time with the U-20’s, he made several appearances with the U-18 squad.
TRANSACTION: Columbus Crew signs midfielder Romain Gall via Major League Soccer’s weighted lottery. Gall will be added to the club’s roster immediately pending receipt of his International Transfer Certificate (ITC).
Name: Romain Gall
Pronunciation: Ro-main, G-ALL
Position: Midfielder
Height: 5’9”
Weight: 140
Born: January 31, 1995 in Paris, France
Hometown: Herndon, Virginia
Citizenship: United States / France
Acquired: Signed on August 7, 2014 via Major League Soccer’s weighted lottery
Previous Experience: FC Lorient – Lorient II (2011-2014)
