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Player name: Charlie Adams
Position: Defensive midfielder
Last club: Stevenage FC
One thing you need to know
Charlie spent the 2015 season with Louisville City FC in the USL which allowed him to become familiar with both the league and life in on this side of the pond. After a brief return to England, Adams was a late season addition to the Monarchs in 2016 and managed to show enough in his five appearances to earn a return for 2017.
What he brings to the team
Although still only 22 years of age, 6 years of academy and professional football have left Charlie with a sure touch on the ball and good instincts for his position and the game as a whole. While not a primary scoring threat, Adams has several goals for the Monarchs including one on a quick left-footed volley against San Antonio in 2016, a nice set piece kick into the top corner against VC Fusion last week and another scored as an own goal after rebounding off a Orange County FC player today.
A calm and steady influence in the defensive midfield, Charlie seems able to provide the vital connection between the back line and the more offensive midfielders. In all his time as a professional he has a single yellow card and demonstrates the ability to keep his cool and play in control.
Why you should be excited
In Monarchs 2016 season recap on RSL.com, Charlie was quoted as saying:
“I’ve learned a very different style of play and a lot from the other players... It’s all there... we just need a bit of consistency”
New coach Mike Petke will be attempting to build a team identity and a consistent level of play while constantly juggling his lineups between short term loanees from the parent club, the few veterans from 2016, and a whole host of new signings for 2017. Charlie has a superb opportunity to provide veteran leadership and a level of consistency in the midst of all the changes.
Whether pairing with Omar Holness and others coming from RSL or Jesus Leal, Nick Besler and others with the Monarchs, Adams can serve to be the glue that holds the defensive midfield together and help lead the Monarchs to their first postseason.
Predictions for 2017
- Barring extended injury, Adams will be among the top five players in minutes played for the Monarchs during 2017.
- Charlie will see time wearing the captain’s armband.
- Doing his own small bit to overcome the poor public image of English players and penalty kicks, Adams will score from the penalty spot at least once this season.