photo: Alex Schierholtz

Orlando, Fla.- Orlando City SC announced today that the club has re-signed Defender Bryan Burke to a one-year USL PRO contract. Burke, who has been recovering from a broken leg for the past 10 months, is available for selection tonight in the Lions’ second round Open Cup match against Premier Development League (PDL) side Ocala Stampede.

“Obviously we’re delighted that (Bryan) Burke has recovered and is re-joining us this year,” said Head Coach Adrian Heath. “He was a big part of our team last season and he’s done extremely well to recover from such a gruesome injury.”

Burke appeared in the opening 15 matches for Orlando City in 2013 at the right-back position before suffering a broken leg in a 1-1 draw on the road against Charleston in July. Burke's injury occurred in the 8th minute of play, from an unlucky challenge, and saw the defender miss the remainder of the 2013 season and also the first nine games of Lions’ final campaign in USL PRO.

Known as speedy and athletic right-back, Burke was an integral part of Heath’s system in 2013, providing continual attacking support down the right-hand side. In 15 games last season, the defender recorded three assists and also managed to find the back of the net once in a crucial match against Major League Soccer (MLS) side Colorado Rapids in the Open Cup.

Prior to joining Orlando City, Burke led PDL side Kitsap Pumas to a championship in 2011 and also earned MVP honors. The following year, Burke signed his first professional contract with USL PRO side LA Blues and had a stellar season, leading to his original transition to Orlando in 2013.

Transaction: Orlando City SC Re-signs Defender Bryan Burke

Name: Bryan Burke

Position: Defender

Height: 6’2”

Weight: 189 lbs.