by Datti Jinkiri
Mississippi Brilla coach Mark McKeever is set to bring in four more players to his ever-growing team. Louis Beddouri, Jordan Radislavljevic, Ianis Ghachem, and Jamie McNicholas will be making their Mississippi Brilla FC debuts this summer.
Beddouri, Radislavljevic, and Ghachem all hail from France, and McKeever is expecting big things from them.
“This is an exciting trio of players that are a huge part of my plans this year,” said McKeever. "I can say that they provide a level that could see them move into the professional game after they finish their college careers. All three are coming from a very high level in France, and I have no doubt that they will shine in the PDL."
Beddouri just finished a solid debut season at Central Connecticut State University, where he was named to the All-Freshman team. The Bordeaux, France native bagged five goals and an assist in 15 matches for the Division 1 outfit. McKeever had much to say about Beddouri.
“Louis is an exciting attacking player that can play as a 9 or in the hole and I imagine that he will be the player pulling the strings with goals and assists this year. Although Louis is a little younger, he has made a great start at the D1 level making the all-rookie team in his conference as a freshman.”
Radislavljevic, who is also from France, finished his junior season at Chowan University. The defender scored three goals, including the game winner against Davis & Elkins. Radislavljevic also picked up two assists and helped Chowan to a berth in the NCCAA Tournament.
“Jordan is very versatile and can produce at the highest level as a defender on the back line,” said McKeever. "I feel like he will be a big part of what we are trying to achieve this year.
Ghachem made 14 appearances and 11 starts in the Lander University midfield during his freshman season. The Montpellier, France native scored twice and assisted on another goal. He scored the game winner against Erskine and also racked up a Peach Belt Conference Player of the Week honor.
“Ianis brings a great composure on the ball. He sees the game very well and can act as the heartbeat of this side,” McKeever stated.
McNicholas, a native of Nottingham, England, is teammates with Radislavljevic at Chowan. The defender racked up 19 starts and three assists during his debut season. McKeever will look to the youngster for strengthening his back-line.
“Jamie is the modern day wing back that will get up and down the field all day long. He is also very comfortable with both feet, which gives him an extra dimension from the ordinary full back. I think he will provide great balance on the left side, and I imagine he will strive to get involved in the goals as well due to his tremendous delivery. Jamie is an exciting prospect and although he is still young, I feel he will fit right into the PDL level. He had a good professional youth upbringing in England and is now a standout for his current college team.”
Brilla kicks off its 10th season in the Premier Development League with a home contest on Saturday, May 14.