Details of Memphis' United Soccer League franchise expected Monday

AutoZone Park will host a press conference Monday at 4 p.m. with the expectation that details will be announced about the city's new franchise in the United Soccer League.

The Commercial Appeal reported in November that the USL would be coming to town and would begin play at AutoZone Park in 2019. The USL is the second tier of professional soccer in the United States and has teams in such cities as St. Louis, Cincinnati, Orlando and Phoenix.

A release Wednesday announcing Monday's press conference only said there would be "a major announcement regarding the future of professional sports in Memphis."

"We are excited about the prospects of a third professional sports team in downtown Memphis," said Craig Unger, the Redbirds president and general manager, in a written statement in November. "Coupled with the continued revitalization of downtown, the time has never been better for investment in the city and its people."

Reach John Varlas at john.varlas@commercialappeal.com or on Twitter @johnvarlas.