Mar 8, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; New England Revolution forward Sean Okoli (7) dribbles upfield against the Seattle Sounders FC during the second half at CenturyLink Field. Seattle defeated New England, 3-0. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports

2016 USL MVP Sean Okoli played sparingly with New England Revolution and Seattle Sounders across two seasons. He deserves another, more legitimate shot at Major League Soccer in 2017.

This past week during the USL award announcements, FC Cincinnati’s Sean Okoli was given the 2016 MVP award. He was outstanding in the club’s inaugural season, also winning the USL’s 2016 Golden Boot with 16 goals in 29 games.

As we know, the USL is a league trending upward, especially with MLS connections, so he was scoring against formidable defenses, and top-level goalkeepers.

Speaking of the MLS, I think Sean Okoli is well worth consistent playing time, and an MLS roster spot in 2017.

Okoli grew up in Washington, and originally was signed as Homegrown Player for Seattle Sounders. He played three games with them in 2014, before being traded to New England Revolution. In 2015 for the Revs, he made five appearances. He was a big signing for FC Cincinnati, and finally had a chance to play significant minutes, and be the top attacking target. FCC’s crowd was record-breaking for the USL, and Okoli gave them a ton to cheer about every match.

He brings a well-rounded arsenal to the attacking position. He can strike from a distance with the best of them. His athleticism in the box causes a tough mark for any defender, his Sportscenter Top Ten scissor kick to open the season was a perfect example of that. But he also added three assists on the campaign, and makes quick, precise passes in close, crowded areas when the defense packs in front of the goal.

Sean Okoli can provide a serious goal scoring threat to an MLS team looking for a spark. A role that may fit him perfectly, if he gets a chance in 2017, would be a super sub. When the defense is worn out, he brings his athleticism, last second play making, and natural scoring ability on to change the game. It’s yet to be seen if he will get this chance, but in my opinion, Sean Okoli deserves a return to Major League Soccer, but for good this time.