Columbus Crew SC today announced that it has loaned defender Lalas Abubakar to the Pittsburgh Riverhounds of the United Soccer League on a game-by-game basis. Per the Right of Recall incorporated in the loan agreement, Crew SC retains the right to recall the player at any point during the MLS regular season, subject to MLS roster compliance guidelines.

Abubakar was selected in the First Round (Fifth overall) of the 2017 MLS SuperDraft on January 13, 2017. Before joining the Black & Gold, he played three seasons at the University of Dayton, making 61 appearances (60 starts), scoring four goals and recording six assists. Abubakar also played with the Michigan Bucks, winning the United Soccer League’s Premier Development League Championship and being named the USL PDL Defender of the Year (2016).

Led by Head Coach Dave Brandt, the Riverhounds are set to take on the Charleston Battery this Saturday, April 8, in a road contest at MUSC Health Stadium.

Crew SC next visits the Chicago Fire on April 8 in Bridgeview for a 2 p.m. showdown. The two teams have met once already this season, resulting in a 1-1 draw at MAPFRE Stadium in the season opener on March 4. The game can be viewed on ABC-6, Spectrum Sports, and BCSN2 in Ohio or nationally via MLS Live.

The Black & Gold then return home for the first leg of the Trillium Cup against Toronto FC on April 15 for an 8 p.m. kickoff at MAPFRE Stadium.

TRANSACTION

Crew SC loans defender Lalas Abubakar to the Pittsburgh Riverhounds (USL) on a game-by-game basis on April 6, 2017.