Lion Links: 9/2/16

Just because we’re heading into a weekend without a game, doesn’t mean Orlando City soccer is put on hold. Let’s see what going on with the club during this bye week.

Pedro Ribeiro Nears Return

After a strong 2015 season, in which he played in 18 games and started eight, Pedro Ribeiro was injured after just three games this season. He made his debut in a start against Real Salt Lake in the league opener and subbed on for the following two games before falling to injury that’s kept him out ever since. A herniated disc pressing against his sciatic nerve forced the versatile 26-year-old to have back surgery.

However, according to the Orlando Sentinel's Alicia DelGallo, Ribeiro has been back training and is nearing his return.

"Going day by day, it's tough with the back. Some days I feel great, some days I'm a little sore here and there, but I'd say maybe in 10 days I'll probably be playing with OCB."

For both the club and its fans, it'll be good to see the big man back on the field again.

Phil Rawlins Sells Winter Park Home

When Orlando City Founder and President Phil Rawlins arrived in Orlando, he purchased an estate in Winter Park, near Lake Maitland, for nearly $1.45 million through his Park Avenue Revocable Trust 2010. Rachel Williams of Orlando Business Journal reports that Rawlins has sold the home now for $1.75 million, nearly $300,000 more than he initially paid for the property. A tidy sum for the head Lion. To see pics of Phil's old crib, you can check out the listing.

Pierre Da Silva Assists Against Serbia

The United States U-19 men's national team is currently in Subotica, Serbia competing in the Stevan Vilotic Tournament. A key member of that team is OCB midfielder Pierre Da Silva. In a 2-1 loss (click the link to see the highlights) to the home country, the 18-year-old talisman assisted on the team's first half goal scored by Brandon Vazquez. The U.S. will face France later this morning in Senta, Serbia.

Sam Witteman Headed to Cyprus

The Orlando Pride’s first ever draft, 10th overall in this year’s draft, is headed to Cyprus. Sam Witteman, who the Pride selected from Cal, announced via the Upper V Athlete Management Twitter account that she has signed for Apollon Ladies FC — the off-season club that former Pride midfielder Lianne Sanderson has played for the last couple of seasons. Witteman will be joining her new team following this NWSL season and continuing with them during the off-season. Everyone following Orlando City and the Pride will want to wish Sam good luck on this endeavor.

Heather O’Reilly Addresses Fans

Following her team’s ousting from the 2016 Olympics in Rio, Heather O’Reilly officially announced her retirement from international soccer this week. In a message posted via the U.S. women’s national team’s Twitter account, O’Reilly thanked the fans for their support throughout her 230 caps for the national team. Calling herself now a “USWNT fan,” she also asked the American Outlaws where she could join.

O'Reilly has scored 46 goals to go with 54 assists for the USWNT in a career that started at age 17. Now 31, O'Reilly will close her successful career against Thailand in Columbus on Sept. 15. However, she will continue her club career.

That's all we've got for this Friday. Stay tuned for more news and opinions on Orlando City, Orlando Pride, and OCB. Until next time.