The Atlanta Silverbacks continue to add the final pieces to the puzzle ahead of the 2013 season, announcing the signing of midfielder MILTON BLANCO on Wednesday, pending USSF approval.

The 6-foot-1 midfielder returns for a second season with the Silverbacks after joining the club from USL side Charlotte Eagles last July. He appeared in 9 games, all of which he started, last season, registering one assist for the Silverbacks. In addition to the time he spent with the Eagles in early 2012, Blanco’s resumé includes stints with three other professional teams, Chivas USA (MLS), Puerto Rico Islanders (NASL), and Harrisburg City Islanders (USL Pro).

Perhaps his most impressive career achievement came in 2011 when he was named PDL Player of the Year as a member of the Fresno Fuego. Blanco scored 12 goals and posted a league-high 14 assists that season, adding to an already impressive total from the previous season.

While the Fresno, California native has clearly shown that he has an eye for goal, it was his defensive efforts that helped the Silverbacks to such a strong finish last season. Blanco showed his versatility, playing in a more defensive midfield role. Over the last seven games of the season, the Silverbacks earned four shutouts and conceded just four goals. 

Blanco will join his teammates in Atlanta in less than two weeks when the club begins preseason training camp. The Silverbacks kick off their 2013 season on April 13 when they host the Fort Lauderdale Strikers at 7:30 p.m. at Atlanta Silverbacks Park. Single-game and season tickets are currently on sale through the Silverbacks ticket office at 404-969-4900.