Ian Joy Plotting MLS Return

Defending MLS Cup champions Real Salt Lake will be one of the last teams to kick off their preseason activities when players report to training camp on February 10th, but when they do eventually convene, a familiar face could end up joining them. Defender Ian Joy is apparently planning a return to Major League Soccer during the current offseason, stating on his Facebook page that “it looks like I will be moving back to the states to play.”

The 28-year-old native of San Diego has played for teams in England, Scotland, Germany and the United States during his ten year career, including a 19-game run with Real Salt Lake in 2008. He played just seven minutes for the Western Conference club last season before picking up a hamstring injury that keep him sidelined for several months. Last July, Joy and the team decided to part ways, giving the player a chance to be closer to his daughter in Europe. Immediately following his departure, Joy linked up with 3.Bundesliga outfit FC Ingolstadt 04, making a handful of appearances during his time with the club before again deciding to move on.