Blake lands Philly extension

REGGAE BOYZ captain Andre Blake has signed a new multiyear contract extension with Major League Soccer (MLS) club Philadelphia Union. Blake’s new extension will see him staying at the club through to 2026, with an additional option for 2027.

Philadelphia Union made the announcement yesterday in a press release where the club’s sporting director, Ernst Tanner, said Blake represented an important part of the club’s achievements over the years.

“Since joining the team, Andre has been a foundational piece to the club’s achievements,” he said. “He has shown himself to be one of the best goalkeepers in North America, and along with his proven sporting value, has taken on a leadership role both on and off the field.

“His guidance will play an important role in the further development of our young players and the team’s success. We’re happy to have reached an agreement to keep him here in Philadelphia.”

Blake first signed with Philadelphia Union 10 years ago when he was selected during the 2014 SuperDraft where he became the first goalkeeper to be elected first overall.

Blake would become the club’s number one between the sticks at the start of the 2016 season and has gone on to have a stellar MLS career, inclusive of winning the MLS Goalkeeper of the Year three times, the most of any in the competition’s history.

Blake’s time in Philadelphia also includes multiple titles – the 2022 Supporter’s Shield and a treble of US Open Cups – the last of those coming in 2018.

The Jamaican skipper also holds the club record for the most MLS appearances.

Blake has been battling injuries this season, with the goalkeeper having only made five appearances out of a possible 14. He last played for Philadelphia Union in April in an MLS fixture against Real Salt Lake City but is reportedly well on his way back to full fitness.