New York City FC signs Shannon Gomez on loan

With the MLS regular season touching off in just three days, the Bronx Blues have made another addition to their ranks. Shannon Gomez, one of a handful of players on a preseason trial with NYCFC, has signed a loan deal from parent club W Connection of Trinidad & Tobago.

The one-year deal comes with an option to buy.

Gomez is a pacey right-sided player who can line up as an attacking fullback or a proper winger. He has capped for the Trinidad & Tobago national team, but is a U.S. resident and won't require an international roster spot.

"I’m really excited to be here and I’m trying to take in as many new things as I can to help take my game to the next level," Gomez told NYCFC.com. "I’m grateful that the club have shown faith in me and have given me this opportunity. To be coached by Patrick Vieira is very special and I’m determined to give my best week in and week out and prove that I can play for this team. There’s a great team spirit in the group after pre-season and we’re all looking forward to the first game".

Added sporting director Claudio Reyna: "He’s been in training camp with us for a couple of weeks and has adapted well to the level and the system we are going to play."

Head coach Patrick Vieira described Gomez's recent body of work as "a really good surprise" of the preseason. While noting that the player will have to work hard to rise to the level of physicality demanded by Major League Soccer, the gaffer's outlook is decidedly positive.

With right fullback RJ Allen sidelined with an injury and some skepticism still surrounding fellow wide man Andoni Iraola, this is a low-risk move that bolsters the NYCFC ranks in both numbers and athleticism.

Pending the approval of his international transfer certificate (ITC), Gomez will be on hand for New York City's season opener this Sunday afternoon in Chicago.