Philadelphia Union Sign Derrick Jones to a Senior Contract

The Philadelphia Union midfield was in need of a shakeup and it will get just that with the addition of academy player Derrick Jones.

This is a move that is significant for the Philadelphia Union in more ways than one. First Jones is the first official academy player to sign with the senior team. Secondly, his signing shows the team’s commitment to using the Bethlehem Steel USL squad as a development squad. While Ken Tribbett was initially signed for them he never appeared in a match with the team due to earning a spot on the senior squad during the preseason.

Jones, however, was the linchpin in the midfield for the squad and a clear standout performer for the team during the season. During his time with the team, he played in 18 games registering four goals and three assists while functioning as a central defensive midfielder. Technically this is his second senior club contract after being signed to a short-term agreement for the Philadelphia Union’s friendly vs Crystal Palace.

During that game, he had a strong performance in 45 minutes of action before returning to Bethlehem for a match with the Wilmington Hammerheads the next day.

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The move was first reported by Johnathan Tannewald in an exclusive story on Philly.com (which you should also check out).

“I’m very happy that the technical staff put their trust and belief in me,” Jones said. “I’m thankful for that and the opportunity to play here, and I’m willing to give my all to the team.”

Jone’s signing makes him the first Philadelphia Union homegrown signing since 2012 (darn you Keegan Rosenberry for completing college early). He joins a short list of four homegrown signings in the team’s history and is the only one currently with the team.

From the team’s press release:

"“Derrick’s progression through our system has been quicker than anticipated and it’s evident that he is ready for the next step of his career,” Union Sporting Director Earnie Stewart said. “This is a testament to Derrick’s commitment to his trade, and it should be considered a tremendous accomplishment to become the first player to come through our Academy, to Bethlehem Steel, and finally to the First Team. This is also a testament to the hard work of Tommy Wilson and his entire staff at the Academy, and I congratulate them for playing such a large role in this signing. Derrick has now set the benchmark for every player in our youth system, that there is a pathway to the professional level, and that it is achievable if you remain committed to your goals.”"

Jones’ signing comes at a pivotal time for the Philadelphia Union when they were in need of a shakeup. The midfield needs a savior and while Jones won’t immediately be thrown into the starting XI it shouldn’t take long for him to make an impact with the Union.

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Jones is a talented player so it’s no surprise that he is the first to rise completely through the Philadelphia Union academy structure. The Ghana native now carries the weight of being the first graduate with him, however. The performance of Jones will go a long way in establishing the academy’s credibility.

Here’s Jones’ Highlight Reel to show what everyone’s so excited about:

Tommy Wilson has put a lot of effort into redefining the program but it still has a long way to go before reaching the standard that is set by New York and Dallas’ academies. Wilson should be able to attract more players just with Jones’ promotion but a success story could change the future of the team. For Derrick Jones,the future is now and it couldn’t be at a better time for the Philadeladephia Union.

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