The Columbus Crew are set to truly begin their post-Anthony Precourt era this season. They are gunning for a playoff place after substantial investment in the squad and club infrastructure and are steaming ahead under Caleb Porter.
In the old days, the Crew would rely on low-paid draft picks and minimum salary fill-ins to provide depth. This season, backing up Gyasi Zardes will be Fanendo Adi, who has 50 MLS goals to his name (albeit coming off a failed season with FC Cincinnati), while there is depth and variety through smart investment throughout the squad.
And so, with the new season around the corner, here are three players who will be the most important to 2020 fortunes of the Columbus Crew.