IRVINE, Calif. – Orange County Blues FC announced on Monday standout midfielder Didier Crettenand would return to the club for the 2016 USL season.

Crettenand played a key role as the Blues finished first in the USL’s Western Conference last season. He recorded seven goals and three assists in 23 appearances for the club. A native of Switzerland, Crettenand said he was delighted to be back in Orange County.

“I’m very happy to be coming back to Orange County,” said Crettenand. “I’m excited to keep working with the technical staff and to improve upon the success we had as a team last season.”

Crettenand led the Blues with four game-winning goals in 2015, as his ability to score timely goals proved crucial to Orange County’s surge up the standings.

“We are pleased to have Didier back with the OC Blues,” said Blues Head Coach and General Manager Oliver Wyss. “His vast experience and quality on the ball, especially in the final third, are big assets for our team.”