Photo: Earl Gardner

Gabriel Farfan was a fan favorite here in Philadelphia. Like his twin brother, Philadelphia Union midfielder Michael, he plays the game with skill, passion, and grit.

But a desire to play a more offensive role and a possible return to Liga MX has led him back to his native Southern California in a trade to Chivas USA.

Gabriel Farfan joins KYW’s Greg Orlandini and PSP’s Eli Pearlman-Storch on the latest edition of the Philly Soccer Show.

Farfan, who speaks positively about his time in Philadelphia, describes how he spoke with the Union coaching staff about changing his on-field role after playing as a defender for a season and a half. In the end, a move away from the Union looked like the best option for both team and player, with the Union getting cash and a first-round pick from Chivas USA.

Next, philly.com writer Jonathan Tannenwald joins the show. Greg, Eli, and Jonathan run down a number of topics as they preview the Union’s next two games.

The pod also discusses the protest filed by PDL club Ocean City Nor’eastersr’s with US Soccer about the site of their third round tie with the Philadelphia Union on Tuesday, May 28. The Nor’easter’s would like the game to be played at Ocean City High School’s Carey Stadium, their home field and site of their 1-0 upset win over USL PRO side Pittsburgh Riverhounds in US Open Cup second round play last Tuesday.

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To listen to the pod, click on the link above or visit the Philly Soccer Show iTunes page.