Perry and Urso Make It 28

The Columbus Crew signed rookies defender Aubrey Perry and midfielder Kirk Urso ahead of the 5pm roster compliance deadline today. The two signings brings the Crew roster up to 28, leaving the team room to maneuver

Perry, a right back, was selected with the 26th pick of the MLS SuperDraft. He had previously played in the U.S. Under-17 Residency Program and was a four year starter at the University of South Florida. He's expected to back up Sebastian Miranda as he adjusts to the professional game.

After being passed over in the SuperDraft, Urso was selected in the first round of the MLS Supplemental Draft. He had played college soccer at North Carolina with teammate Ben Speas.

The holding midfielder had impressed head coach Robert Warzycha in preseason action, noting "He's just works. He works very hard and he has a good shot from distance. He just settled down in the midfield with Mirosevic and Tchani." He added "He's one of those players that can change the game for you."

Perry and Urso join Ethan Finlay as draftees who made the team. Finlay had already signed a predraft deal. They join rookie Home Grown players, goalkeeper Matt Lampson and forward Ben Speas.

Two additional draftees remain unsigned, 2nd round pick Kevan George has played occasionally, but Urso's emergance may have cost him a spot. Left back Jamie Finch is still recovering from a knee injury that has kept him out of training camp until this week. The Crew previously cut Supplemental Draft picks Darren Amoo and Andrew Bulls.

Perry is certainly a signing for the future, but Urso may be an impact signing for this year. He has consistently impressed the coaching staff and fans who have seen him. With Urso and Finlay, the Crew have two players who can now step in and make an impact.