Wanderers Defender Ryan James Out For Remainder Of Season

Halifax Wanderers full-back Ryan James will miss the remainder of the season after suffering an injury against York United.

The 29-year-old will undergo surgery and will recover in Halifax, where will remain with teammates as a long journey towards recovery takes place.

The Mississauga native had made six appearances for the east coast side after arriving from Birmingham Legion, a USL Championship side he helped guide to the playoffs.

“Naturally, we’re all disappointed for Ryan, who has already become an integral part of our squad and an outstanding professional to add to our club in the short time he has been with us so far,” stated Wanderers Sporting Director Matt Fegan.

“We respect his decision to get surgery in the interests of his playing career, and he will have our full support on his road to recovery.”

Drafted by Sporting Kansas City in the 2016 MLS SuperDraft, James ended up signing with the Rochester Rhinos, with further stints at Nashville SC (pre-MLS), Pittsburgh Riverhounds, and the Birmingham Legion seeing him rack up 191 professional appearances during his time stateside.

“Even with the tough road ahead to recovery, I’m excited and committed to coming back as strong as ever as a player,” James stated. “There’s even good amongst the struggle, and you just have to be brave enough to learn from it.”

The match in which James picked up his injury also saw York United midfielder Markiyan Voytsekhovskyy suffer a bad-looking foot injury, though his recovery timeline isn’t yet known.

Last season saw the Wanderers forced to pivot when star player Joao Morelli was ruled out for the season last April, with the forward only now returning to the team.

A further statement from the Halifax Wanderers indicates that they have exercised a league provision allowing them for roster relief in the event of a season-ending injury.

The club’s playing identity is taking shape under the guidance of Patrice Gheisar, with the team besting top-of-the-table Pacific FC last night.

We wish James all the best in his recovery.

Header Image Photo Credit: John Jacques