TULSA – Eric Bird’s FC Tulsa legacy was etched into history as his volley struck the back of the net late in the September moonlight at ONEOK Field. It was Bird’s second match-winning strike in the 2020 season, the most on the team. Now, he’s back for more after signing a multi-year contract to stay in Tulsa.
“It means a lot for me to return to Tulsa,” Bird said. “I stand by what I said last year before I signed. This is a franchise that is looking to grow and hungry for trophies. It is the perfect place to be.”
Bird’s goal to defeat San Antonio FC was voted FC Tulsa’s Goal of the Year for 2020, and as he pounded his chest and sprinted towards the supporters, he solidified a connection between team and fans which FC Tulsa has been proud to forge over 2020.
“I can’t wait to get back out in front of the FC Tulsa fans,” Bird said. “Even at limited capacity last year they were loud enough to give us that push we needed late in games. I’m sure we’ll have more moments like those in 2021 and we’ll need the supporters’ inspiration again if we’re going to get those late game winners.”
Bird’s multi-year contract makes him the sixth FC Tulsa player to sign such a deal since the club’s overhaul. Coach Nsien praised Bird after his 2020 season, lauding his 2-way abilities and his understanding of the game.
“After working with Mike last year, I know he is an ambitious manager,” Bird said. “He’ll push us to the max and make sure he gets the best possible product on the field. Tulsa is very lucky to have him as their leader.
“Last year, I did my best to provide balance to the team from a more defense minded position in the midfield,” Bird said. “In 2021 I hope to be able to get forward more and contribute in the final third with goals and assists.”
TULSA – Eric Bird’s FC Tulsa legacy was etched into history as his volley struck the back of the net late in the September moonlight at ONEOK Field. It was Bird’s second match-winning strike in the 2020 season, the most on the team. Now, he’s back for more after signing a multi-year contract to stay in Tulsa.
“It means a lot for me to return to Tulsa,” Bird said. “I stand by what I said last year before I signed. This is a franchise that is looking to grow and hungry for trophies. It is the perfect place to be.”
Bird’s goal to defeat San Antonio FC was voted FC Tulsa’s Goal of the Year for 2020, and as he pounded his chest and sprinted towards the supporters, he solidified a connection between team and fans which FC Tulsa has been proud to forge over 2020.
“I can’t wait to get back out in front of the FC Tulsa fans,” Bird said. “Even at limited capacity last year they were loud enough to give us that push we needed late in games. I’m sure we’ll have more moments like those in 2021 and we’ll need the supporters’ inspiration again if we’re going to get those late game winners.”
Bird’s multi-year contract makes him the sixth FC Tulsa player to sign such a deal since the club’s overhaul. Coach Nsien praised Bird after his 2020 season, lauding his 2-way abilities and his understanding of the game.
“After working with Mike last year, I know he is an ambitious manager,” Bird said. “He’ll push us to the max and make sure he gets the best possible product on the field. Tulsa is very lucky to have him as their leader.
“Last year, I did my best to provide balance to the team from a more defense minded position in the midfield,” Bird said. “In 2021 I hope to be able to get forward more and contribute in the final third with goals and assists.”
