ST. PETERSBURG, FLORIDA – The Tampa Bay Rowdies announced on Friday that the club has acquired forward Jake LaCaba on loan from Major League Soccer’s Inter Miami CF for the remainder of the 2023 USL Championship season, marking league success. In response, he returned a familiar face to head coach Neil Collins’ team. Club one season ago. Lacaba will be selected when Tampa Bay faces New Mexico United at Arlan Stadium on Saturday night.
The 22-year-old scored 12 goals and five assists for the Rowdies while on loan from the New York Red Bulls a season ago, helping Tampa Bay finish as the top-scoring club in the USL Championship regular season. . LaCava’s hard work paid off as USL named him a finalist for the championship’s Young Player of the Year award.
“In many ways we’re really happy with where we are, but our job is always to look ahead,” Rowdies head coach Neil Collins said. “Jake was a big influencer last year with his goals and his attitude. It’s not just about wanting to stand in the field and contribute, but it’s also proof of wanting to do it here.
“Naturally, he’s been very sought after in the league, but I think we can give him the best possible environment. I have to keep making this team better. I think he will make us better and give us competition.I am excited to add him to the team we are already at the top of.He will be a great asset.”
Last November, Lacaba was drafted by St. Louis City SC in the MLS expansion draft and then traded to Inter Miami. Since moving to South Florida, the young attacker has made six appearances and scored one goal for Miami’s MLS NEXT Pro team. He joined Rowdy’s attacking line-up, which has been in form over the past month, scoring 14 goals in the club’s six-game unbeaten streak.
“I feel like I’m at home,” Lacaba said of his return. “I am looking forward to getting back on the field with my players. , I’m interested in it.It’s a big part of me and my type of player.I’m looking forward to working with Neil and the whole staff again.There’s still a lot to improve in my game.” Yes, and being here will help with that.”
