Orlando City seems to have found a gem in young homegrown defender Tommy Redding. At only 19, the Oviedo native is making quite the impression in his first MLS season - making three starts in just as many games. In a strong showing in New York, Redding was able to shutdown a fast and experienced NYCFC attack.
Redding’s confidence seems to be growing as he collects each valuable minute. “I think every minute I play the more and more I get comfortable. So the more games I’ll play, the more comfortable I’ll get throughout the season.”
Redding knows it was a team effort to stop NYCFC. “The whole team played really well today.” Redding said with a smile after Friday’s win. “It was a tough one. It’s a tough place to play, especially to get a result. We all pushed ourselves really hard… Joe [Bendik] came up big. When you need him, he’ll be there for you”
The duo of Redding and Seb Hines is another great pairing starting to take shape for Orlando City. “We’re starting to get used to each other. Real Salt Lake was our first game together. Every game it gets better and hopefully we carry that momentum with us.”
Seb Hines seems to have high hopes for the budding star, “Tommy is a young player and he’s only going to get better. The future is bright for Tommy. This was only our third game together and we’re trying to form a partnership for the remaining games.”
Redding was recently called up for the Men’s U20 team where he will have a chance to shine on the international stage. With so many young stars, Orlando City has a great foundation to build upon.
