Demar Stewart moves to USL's Orlando City

Andre Lowe, Senior Staff Reporter

Reggae Boyz defender Demar Stewart has signed a two-year deal with new USL (United Soccer Leagues) PRO League club Orlando City FC and joins another Jamaican, Nicholas Addlery, in the league which sits one level below Major League Soccer (MLS).

Stewart, 26, the younger brother of Bristol City-based defender Damion, started his career at Portmore United before being snapped up by English outfit Sheffield United in 2007.

Work-permit woes

Difficulties in obtaining a work permit meant he had to be loaned out to Belgian team White Star Woluwé FC, and then again to Chinese team Chengdu Blades FC in 2008.

Stewart, who has made 10 appearances for the national senior team, is considered the first of a number of internationals expected to become part of coach Adrian Heath's ambitious project. He is also partnered in defence by another Jamaican, Kieron Bernard, who has represented Jamaica at the youth level.

Heath, who has coached several English clubs, such as Burnley, Sheffield United and Coventry City, has openly stated his intention to build a club built on the experience of international players.

Stewart's agent, Robert Chambers of Pro Goal Sports USA, believes this represents a great opportunity for the defender to reignite his international career.

"For Demar, Orlando City represents a good opportunity to reignite his club career, after having work-permit issues for years while owned by Sheffield United FC in England," said Chambers. "Demar will now be surrounded with quality players, guided by a top-class coach; which can only be a good thing as he looks to prepare himself for a swift return to Europe."

The USL-PRO league, which is being paid particular focus by US football officials, is seen as another alternative to local players who are looking to break into the North American and European leagues.

Useful platform

Pro-Goal Sports' Romel Wallen underlined this notion during a recent conversation.

"It (USL-PRO league) is a useful platform in terms of getting greater exposure," Wallen said. "Also, there is a lot of investment to make the USL much like the Championship in England. Young players can play in this league and learn how to be professional, hone their craft in a more professional environment, before moving to greater heights."

Waterhouse goalkeeper Richard McCallum may also join the USL-PRO ranks soon, as he is currently on trial at the Puerto Rico Islanders.