NYCFC’s first-ever MLS SuperDraft proved to be a profitable one…
Philadelphia hosted the 16th SuperDraft on January 15, 2015 – the day Khiry Shelton signed for the club.
Fellow Expansion Team Orlando City were up first in the draw, selecting a future scourge of NYCFC in the shape of Cyle Larin.
With the second first round pick, Claudio Reyna opted for the Oregon State graduate, Shelton – the reigning Pac-12 Player of the Year.
Shortly after signing, Shelton told NYCFC.com: “To be New York City’s first draft pick, I’m blessed. I couldn’t be any more thankful for this opportunity. I can’t wait to get started.”
Sporting Director Claudio Reyna was equally excited about the prospect of Khiry in sky blue.
Reyna added: “We’re really excited about him – he knows he has a lot of areas to improve but we really see him as a player with a lot of potential.”
Since...
Khiry has gone on to become one of NYCFC's shining lights after shaking off an injury-hit rookie campaign.
He showed the full bouquet of his talents in the 2016 season as the team qualified for the MLS Playoffs in just the second year of the club's existence, weighing in with nine assists and four goals.
In Numbers
Games: 39
Goals: 5
Assists: 10
Vieira on Shelton…
“Physically he’s really strong and he’s really good in the air. Technically, he has to work a little bit, but he’s really interesting. He’s got the potential to be one of the best players in this league, and he has to believe in that as well.”
