ISLAMABAD: Pakistan forward Kaleemullah Khan has signed up with United Soccer League (USL) side Tulsa Roughnecks according to the Oklahoma based club’s official website.

Kaleemullah played last season for another USL outfit Sacramento Republic.

A number of factors, including a coaching change, restricted Kaleemullah to feature in just seven matches for the Republic.

“I am extremely humbled by the opportunity that has been given to me by Tulsa. They are a great team and play eye-catching football,” Kaleemullah said while talking to Dawn.

“I am a quick learner and after spending some time with Sacramento Republic, I have learned a lot about American style of play so I’m sure I will be in a stronger position to play well for my new team.”

“I just cant wait to meet my new teammates and the coaching staff. I’ve only heard good things about Tulsa and believe that I can make a valuable contribution to the team.”

Kaleemullah also paid tribute to his Sacramento Republic coach for giving his career a vital push.

“I would also like to thank former Sacramento Republic coach Preki for giving me a chance to play in the USL and believing in me. He is an amazing coach and I am confident that he will do a great job anywhere in the world.”

Kaleemullah's deal was made possible by Kora Stars Sports Agency, a California-based sports management firm which has a regional office in Islamabad.

“My agent Adel Saad has always pushed me to continue improving as a player and I know for sure that this new journey is going to be a great one for me. All this would not have been possible without him,” Kaleemullah said.

‘Great pace and skills’

The 23-year-old will add another viable attacking option for Tulsa coach David Irving.

“It is exciting to add Kaleemullah to our club,” said Irving.

“He is a young player with great pace and skills who has a very high ceiling in the game.

“He didn’t get much playing time last season, but his goal scoring record in past years has been phenomenal,” added the Tulsa boss.

The striker from Chaman, Balochistan kicked off his career with Khan Research Laboratories (KRL) FC in the Pakistan Premier League (PPL), spending five seasons with the squad.

In 94 appearances, Kaleemullah scored 72 goals and set a PPL record by scoring 31 goals in 2012-13 season.

He won four league titles during his five seasons with the club.

In 2014, Kaleemullah joined FC Dordoi in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.

He spent one season there, leading the side to the league title while scoring 18 goals and providing 8 assists before joining Sacramento Republic FC last year.

Kaleemullah has been a regular member of the Pakistan National Team since 2011 and was named the team captain in 2014.

He has made 25 total appearances for the senior squad, scoring four times.