Old boys get new deals

The Philadelphia Union have brought back their three most experienced players. The club announced today that Conor Casey, Brian Carroll, and Fred have all signed new contracts.

Casey, 33, will likely return in a bench role, as injuries have worn him down to the point where he can barely play 60 minutes. A beastly striker in his prime, Casey's presence will aid the development of CJ Sapong and Dzenan Catic.

Brian Carroll should also return in a substitute capacity in 2015. At 33, he's lost a step, but he's a proven winner with the wherewithal to clamp down on attacking movements.

Fred, who is the oldest player on the Union, will serve as a player-coach this season. He appeared in 11 games in 2014, but he should get less run this year.

At four, the Union have the sixth fewest players over 30 in all of MLS. Only New England, Toronto FC, Vancouver, Portland, and Orlando City SC have fewer.