By DAN KARELL
The New York Cosmos continue to add pieces ahead of their first North American Soccer League match on August 3.
Former Blackburn Rovers forward Jemal Johnson and defender Chris Rodd have signed contracts with the team, the Cosmos announced on Friday, putting the current squad at 17 players.
A Paterson, N.J. native, Johnson grew up in England and had stints with Blackburn and Wolves, and is currently with the Fort Lauderdale Strikers through the end of the spring season.
Rodd hasn’t played since retiring after a serious foot injury in 2009.
The Cosmos also announced the hiring of Simone Lucchesi as the club’s full-time fitness coach.
What do you make of this news? Like the signings? Think Rodd can make a full comeback from injury?
Share your thoughts below.