Burke returns to Philadelphia Union

After more than a year away, national striker Cory Burke is back in the United States and will rejoined his Major League Soccer (MLS) team, Philadelphia Union.

The 27-year-old Burke returned to America on Tuesday afternoon after successfully obtaining his US visa, clearing up the problems he had which resulted in his absence from the team since April 2019. His agent, Damani Ralph, confirmed with STAR Sports on Tuesday that his work permit was granted. Ralph posted an Instagram story with Burke's plane ticket to New York.

Union head coach Jim Curtin said the news was welcoming after the long period away.

"He is about to be in Philadelphia, which is the most positive news I've had for quite some time," Curtin said "But until I see his face, I cannot confirm or deny he's in Philadelphia."

In May 2019, Burke made an error while he was renewing his visa to work in the United States. The incident caused Burke to return to Jamaica to resolve the matter. Since then, the Union sent him on loan twice in the space of 17 months; first to local Premier League champions Portmore United until January, and then to SKN St Polten of the Austrian Bundesliga. He made 11 appearances and scored four goals during his stint in Austria, including scoring his first career hat-trick.

Burke is required to complete the mandatory quarantine period before rejoining the team, but could feature in the latter part of the regular season and the play-offs. Philadelphia Union are currently in second place in the Eastern Conference standings with 31 points, following their 3-0 win over FC Cincinnati on Wednesday.