Memphis 901 FC trades Phillip Goodrum to FC Tulsa

901 FC has sent Phillip Goodrum to Tulsa for an undisclosed transfer fee and midfielder Rodrigo da Costa, occurring just three days after the two sides matched up in USL Championship league play.

“We are delighted to welcome Rodrigo and his wife Chelsea to the Memphis 901 family,” Assistant Sporting Director Caleb Patterson-Sewell said. “We are getting a top performer and someone that can help us right away. We would like to thank Phil for his dedication to Memphis 901 FC, he was fantastic for us last season and we wish him well as he moves forward.”

The supernova of a trade involves attacking threats that have been integral to both teams since their arrival. Goodrum’s 22 goals last season is a franchise record for Memphis, as he led the club to a 2nd place finish in the Eastern conference. Da Costa, on the other hand, is the all-time scoring leader for Tulsa – collecting 36 goals in a three-year span.

Despite the impact Goodrum had in Memphis, he had not scored a goal or received an assist in his nine appearances this year, struggling to conjure up the same spark from 2022. Meanwhile, Tulsa have earned three points only once this season and currently sit outside a playoff spot, so a rebranded attack featuring a proven striker might be what both Tulsa and Goodrum need.

Taking a deeper look at what da Costa will bring to 901 FC, the skilled 29-year-old has played in all 11 games this season – putting in a full shift of 90 minutes every time. Da Costa has consistently been available, starting in 30 games last season and leading the team in minutes played. He has spent most of his time this year as an attacking midfielder, but did play two games a piece as a center forward and right wing which shows a bit of his versatility.

“I am delighted we are able to add Rodrigo to our group,” Head Coach Stephen Glass said. “His proven ability and consistent high level of performance will be a huge boost for us as we look to build on our recent performances.”

Da Costa scored or assisted four times during the first six matches of the season, but his offensive impact has stalled since. Coming to a new club could alleviate some of the goal scoring pressure and responsibilities that might have built up. Also, he will be joining one of the most talented midfield groups in the Championship – featuring Aaron Molloy, Laurent Kissiedou and Jeremy Kelly.

The timing of the addition gives ample time for da Costa to mesh with the squad before Memphis’ next match on Saturday, June 3rd against Miami FC.