Minnesota Adds Attacking Depth With Ben Speas

The well-known offensive power of Minnesota United has gotten stronger, as the club announced the signing of Ben Speas. The Ohio native joins the Loons ahead of the 2016 North American Soccer League NASL season after four seasons with the Columbus Crew of Major League Soccer (MLS). 
“It’s a great opportunity for me to play here in Minnesota,” Speas said. “I spoke with Manny Lagos and Carl Craig and they are building something great here. It’s an exciting time for soccer in the Twin Cities and I’m looking forward to being a part of it.”
 
Speas had an impressive college career, winning the NCAA College Cup in back-to-back seasons with the University of Akron in 2010 and University of North Carolina in 2011. His game-winner in the 2011 final earned him the College Cup MVP award.
 
“I like to attack and find the ball between the lines, turn and go at defenders,” Speas said. “I’m offensive-minded and hopefully I’ll be able to help the team out in front of the goal.”
 
Speas developed in the Columbus Crew Academy and, in 2012, he signed a Home Grown Player contract with the club. He made his professional debut on the final day of the 2012 season, a 2-1 Columbus win over Toronto FC. Speas made 41 appearances for the Crew over his four seasons with the club, scoring two goals and providing four assists.
 
“Ben Speas is here to prove to everyone out there what he is really capable of,” United head coach Carl Craig said. “He is a man on mission.”
 
The 25-year-old also gained international experience early in his career. He was part of the U.S. Soccer Residency program and made 10 appearances for the U-17 National Team in 2007. He was also called in to train with the U-18 and U-20 National Teams.