Jonathan Lintner

@JonathanLintner

The Louisville City Football Club on Friday announced the first three players signed by the new USL Pro franchise, which starts play in 2015 at Slugger Field.

Pending United States Soccer Federation approval, head coach James O'Connor hauled in a trio of midfielders: Juan Guzman, Kadeem Dacres and Guy Abend.

Guzman is a veteran who O'Connor, a former Orlando City Soccer Club player, faced off against in the 2013 USL Pro championship. He's a 28-year-old Charlotte, N.C., native entering his sixth season in the league.

"He has very good attributes," O'Connor said. "He's a holding midfielder, so he can play a specific role and he's going to be a very good asset for us."

Dacres, 23, is a former Chicago Fire draft pick but wasn't signed by the Major League Soccer club. The Rosedale, N.Y., native went on to score three goals and add an assist last season with the Arizona United.

"Kadeem is a talented player who is fast, direct and a real threat to opposing teams," O'Connor said. "He has great potential and I think he is one that will really excite our fans this upcoming season."

The first-year head coach pulled Abend, 24, from an Israeli league he scored two goals last season.

"He is a player I've had my eye on for a while," O'Connor said. "I'm thrilled we could come to terms."

Louisville City FC promised more player announcements before the New Year. A schedule is expected by then as well.

Additionally, O'Connor will attend supports group Louisville Coopers' annual meeting at 2:30 p.m. Sunday at Molly Malone's, 933 Baxter Avenue, which coincides with the MLS final. There, fans can purchase season tickets, which start at $180.

Jonathan Lintner can be reached at (502) 582-4199. Follow him on Twitter @JonathanLintner.