CJ sapong extends contract with philadephia union

"We value the energy C.J. brings every day and we’re very happy to have him committed to our club for the long term,” Philadelphia sporting director Earnie Stewart said in a statement released by the club.

"His athleticism and natural finishing abilities make him a true difference maker and we have the utmost confidence he will settle in as a leader for the team, ultimately becoming a building block for our club for years to come."

Sapong joined the Union in December 2014 in a trade with Sporting Kansas City.

The 2011 MLS Rookie of the Year, Sapong missed three games last May while undergoing an assessment by the league’s Substance Abuse and Behavior Health program following a DUI arrest.

He ended up appearing in 27 regular season contests, leading the Union with nine goals and adding four assists.