Columbus welcomed back a familiar face on Saturday, and had a surprise for the occasion.

Justin Meram returned to the field for Columbus Crew SC on Saturday, in their game at MAPFRE Stadium against the Houston Dynamo, his first appearance for the club since returning via trade on August 2. Coming off the bench in the 60th minute, Crew SC fans gave the midfielder a standing ovation. They also unveiled a rare in-game tifo: "Justin Meram: The Lion of Mesopotamia Returns."

The nickname is in reference to Meram's heritage and national team status, as an Iraqi international.