CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Charlotte Independence announced on Thursday the club had re-signed legendary forward Jorge Herrera, ensuring the return of the second-leading scorer in the USL’s modern era to the club for a fourth season.

Herrera was the first player signed in Charlotte Independence history ahead of the 2015 season and has been a key figure as the Independence have reached the USL Cup Playoffs in each of the past two seasons. He will enter his 20th season in the professional ranks this spring.

“I feel very blessed to be a part of the team again,” said Herrera. “I'm very thankful for the opportunity to play one more year.”

The Colombian veteran hit several career milestones in the 2017 season, including the franchise’s first, and his first career hat trick. He surpassed the 50-goal mark in the USL regular season for his career, becoming only the second player in the league’s modern era to do so. During the month of July, an eight-goal, two-assist performance spurred the Independence to an undefeated 5-0-2 recorded and resulted in Herrera being named USL Player of the Month.

“It was a great season, personally, and as a team,” said Herrera. “Now that we're in a break, you kind of look back and you can enjoy those little moments a little better. Although we wanted to go farther as a team, but now as time passes, those are things are going to be great memories.”

“We are delighted to have Jorge for another season,” said Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries. “His soccer acumen and ability in front of goal only increase with time; his dedication and concentration on fitness have kept him at a remarkable level throughout his career. I look forward to seeing the smile Jorge brings every day to training before watching him school the younger guys day in and day out.”

The 37-year-old recorded 12 goals and five assists in 29 appearances in the 2017 season, logging 2,002 minutes of action. In three seasons with the Independence, Herrera ranks second in club history with 23 goals scored and 14 assists.