Indy Eleven add New Zealand international Craig Henderson to bolster midfield
INDIANAPOLIS — Seeking a versatile player to help at the wide midfield spots and centrally when needed, the Indy Eleven appear to be close to terms with New Zealand international Craig Henderson.
Eleven coach Tim Hankinson confirmed the move Thursday evening on Casillero Deportivo in an interview with Gus Ochoa and Logan Ayers.
— @Casillero Deportivo (@IndyLockerRoom) February 9, 2017
“We’ve added one more wing midfielder to make sure that we’re reinforced at starting-caliber players in (Craig) Henderson,” Hankinson told Casillero Deportivo. “(He’s) a New Zealand international — played for Bob Bradley at Stabaek in Norway.”
(Note: Hankinson mistakenly said “Chris Henderson,” a retired footballer and current Seattle Sounders sporting director who coincidentally also played at Stabaek.)
Henderson has a chance to step into the starting XI in Indy if he can play out left, but seems more likely to receive quality minutes off the bench backing up multiple midfield positions. He attended Dartmouth College before spending his entire professional career in Sweden and Norway. The 29-year-old Wellington native has been capped twice by his home country.
With Duke Lacroix‘s future in Indy looking doubtful at best after trialing with Minnesota United FC — albeit unsuccessfully — and Omar Gordon‘s future at the club similarly uncertain, the Eleven are definitely in the market for wide players. Henderson fits the bill and immediately fills a roster need.
“We tried to lure (Lacroix) back and we’ll see how that plays out,” Hankinson added.
Omar Gordon (left) and Duke Lacroix (right) on the pitch vs. Rayo OKC in 2016. Rayo OKC/NASL
The Eleven took a “value veteran” approach to rebuilding their roster last year, and seem content to stick with that trend this offseason after re-signing several of their older players while funneling in even more experience.
There must be some formalities holding up the club’s official announcement of the Henderson signing, but it appears close to a done deal given Hankinson’s public openness on the matter. Look for Indy to formally announce its newest addition in the coming days.
