POPLARVILLE, Miss. — The Pearl River men's soccer program has added a playmaking midfielder to its 2020 roster with its latest signing.

PRCC men's soccer coach Drew Gallant announced Thursday the Wildcats have signed Ryley Smith of Manchester, England.

Smith joins an incoming class that already includes Jamie Chamberlain of Herne Bay, England, Brazilian midfielder Julio Cezar Gruba Filho along with Mississippi standouts Dustin Cuevas of Hancock, Brandon Elkins of St. Stanislaus, Alex Emery of West Harrison and Rafa Jakubowicz of St. Martin.

"Ryley is a very talented midfielder who can play as an attacking mid or box-to-box midfielder. He will have no problem filling the void left by Ethan Hodby and Shande James," Gallant said. "Ryley will be able to provide goals from outside the box, he can also drive inside and create opportunities around him. 

"He also has great vision in finding players on the wing, so he should provide more opportunities for Tres Ray and Miguel Hernandez to get in on goal in dangerous zones."

Smith has developed in several academies in England. The 6-foot, 165-pound midfielder spent 2014-18 with Burnley FC's academy, earning captain status.

Smith spent 2018-20 with Blackpool FC's academy and was an assistant captain. During the 2019-20 season, Smith scored seven goals and registered four assists in 18 games. 

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