Knight joins new USL 1 franchise Lexington

National goalkeeper Amal Knight will begin his second stint in the United States of America (USA), joining new United Soccer League One (USL 1) outfit Lexington Sporting Club.

Lexington announced Knight's signing on Tuesday, pending league and federation approval. He is one of their first signings, with Lexington being formed two years ago and will make their debut this season in the USA's third tier.

After stints in the USA in 2020 with United Soccer League (USL) Championship outfit San Diego Loyal and a loan spell at USL 1's FC Tuscon, Knight returned home in 2021 to the local top flight - first with Arnett Gardens and then with Harbour View, who he helped to win their fifth Jamaica Premier League (JPL) title in July.

Knight said that he is looking forward to being among the pillars that Lexington look to, to create lasting memories, and that being a foundation player will not be taken lightly.

"To be one of the first signings means that the coaching staff thinks highly of me, so I'll do my utmost to reward the organisation and the fans," Knight said on Lexington's website. "Being a part of this organisation, I hope to create special memories and to set a standard for the club in years to come."

Knight said that he wants to bring a championship mentality there, as well as togetherness to solidify their identity.

"The ultimate team goal is to make it into the play-offs, as we're not here to just participate, but to win a championship. I want to create an atmosphere in the locker room where we are a family and that we stick together as a unit throughout the entire season, which will help us to push each other daily in our sessions, so we can get the right results on the pitch," Knight said.

Coach Sam Stockly said that his calm play will be a major asset to the team, and believes that he will be the standard-bearer for what all players should aspire to.

"Amal has outstanding experience, especially at the international level with the Jamaican national team. He has the type of great character we look for in players, and is a fantastic locker-room presence," Stockly said on the website. "On the pitch, Amal has great distribution and is a wonderful shot-stopper. He brings a calm and composed demeanour, and will also help set the standard with his work ethic."

Lexington open their season on March 18.