CINCINNATI – FC Cincinnati announced on Monday that 15 players from the club’s inaugural season in the USL would return for the 2017 season with the club. Among the returning group are team USL All-League selection Harrison Delbright, midfield standout Corben Bone and forwards Andrew Wiedeman and Omar Cummings.

“It is extremely reassuring to know that we have a strong group in terms of talent, leadership and chemistry for 2017,” said Head Coach John Harkes. “The group gives us a great foundation to build on. They all understand that while we had a great first year, there is still much more to accomplish and we are looking forward to next season.”

Delbridge, who made 29 appearances after joining the club from the Portland Timbers 2 last offseason, is joined defensively by Austin Berry, Derek Luke, Pat McMahon and Tyler Polak. Berry, a Cincinnati native and hometown favorite, rebounded from an early-season injury and played 19 games and scoring three goals. Luke saw action in 29 games and made eight starts in FCC’s backline. McMahon had a goal and an assist in 29 games and played in eight of the team’s 10 shutouts, while Polak played in all 30 games, notching assists against Louisville City FC and Rochester Rhinos.