LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Louisville City FC announced on Thursday it had signed former FC Cincinnati and MLS SuperDraft selection Luke Spencer. The signing is pending league and federation approval.

“I first noticed Luke last year we were at IMG Academy for preseason,” said Louisville Head Coach James O’Connor. “He’s someone who we’ve kept an eye on since then. He didn’t get a lot of playing time in 2016, but we think he’s got great attributes. He showed that in the invitation tryout.

“He’s got great desire and character, which is part of the criteria we’re looking for, and we think he’s very capable. I’m delighted to have him on board.”

Spencer logged 64 minutes in 11 USL appearances last season for FC Cincinnati as a backup to Sean Okoli, who led the USL in scoring and was named Most Valuable Player. This year, Spencer will battle for more playing time on a Louisville roster that currently includes two other strikers, Cameron Lancaster and Ilija Ilic.

“You might have to move around a little bit, but it’s worth it when you find the right place,” Spencer said. “James is an intense coach. He’s going to get the most out of you and everyone else on the field.”

“Luke gives us another option,” O’Connor added. “He’s different from Cameron and Ilija, which I think is important. He’s probably more of an attacking forward. This gives us three strikers with different strengths.”