In speaking to the media on Thursday via a Zoom call from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, where the Columbus Crew is in the first stage of the team’s preseason, head coach Caleb Porter more than hinted that his team was about to make a signing at left back.
“We’ve got a young player that we’ve signed that’s going to be a really good No. 2 we think,” Porter said when asked about winger Pedro Santos playing left back this season. “One of the best left backs in college who’s come out.”
Just a day later, Porter’s hint came to fruition as the Crew announced the signing of defender Will Sands through the 2023 season with options for 2024 and 2025.