February 1, 2017
Following reports earlier in the week that Ring would be joining NYCFC shortly, the team officially announced his acquisition, pending receipt of his P-1 Visa and ITC.
Targeted Allocation Money or TAM was used to acquire ring from German club Kaiserslautern.
Ring spoke to NYCFC.com about the move:
“As soon as I heard of the interest I was intrigued because I know how big the club is and how well-supported the team is.”
“It took a long time to get it done but as soon as I knew about the New York option it was clear for me that I wanted to do it. I had to fight for it hard but I’m so happy.
“I’ve been watching the MLS games they show in Germany on Eurosport and I’ve learned it’s a very physical league and maybe an underestimated one.
“I want to leave my mark – I think when the people get to know me they will see I’m a winner and always give 110% and fight to win.”
Ring is a 25 year old Finnish central midfielder with 42 appearances for the national team. He has played 94 games in Germany’s second division with FCK, starting 66 of those games.
Patrick Vieira was excited about the move, also talking to NYCFC.com about it.
“At 25, Alexander is a player entering his peak years who has played at a high level over a number of seasons.”
“He’s a midfielder who can contribute on both sides of the game, both defensively and offensively and he gives us another great option either at the base of midfield or box-to-box.”
“He had a real desire to play for this club and be a part of the project at New York City, so we’re really happy to have him onboard for 2017 and look forward to him arriving to train with us.”
Ring is described as a versatile midfielder who can play anywhere centrally, he will give Patrick Vieira an option in midfield after it was announced that Mikey Lopez would be out 3-4 months following ankle surgery. As of now, there is no clear favorite to play central defensive midfield after the retirement of Andoni Iraola, the return of Federico Bravo from his loan, and Lopez’s injury further clouds that picture.
Sporting Director Claudio Reyna also heaped praise on the midfielder.
“We are excited to welcome Alexander to the NYCFC family. He’s been performing at a high level with FC Kaiserslautern in Germany and is an important player for the Finland national team.”
Ring will require an International Roster Spot, it is believed NYCFC currently have one available, however the club has yet to clarify that situation.
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