A former top MLS coach is joining Fresno’s new pro team. Find out who and his role.

First, Fresno secured United Soccer League approval for an expansion franchise.

Now, the team has a general manger with international and Major League Soccer experience.

Welcome Frank Yallop.

Yallop, 53, was named to the job after most recently serving as coach and president of Phoenix Rising FC of the USL.

Lead investor Ray Beshoff made the announcement Tuesday. Yallop had resigned last month in Phoenix in part to be closer to family in Northern California.

“This is an exciting time for professional soccer in Fresno,” Yallop said in a news release. “We have a very strong and knowledgeable soccer community here, and our goal is to build a USL club of which they will all be proud. I’d like to thank Ray for the opportunity, and look forward to a successful future for the club.”

The Fresno USL team is expected to debut in 2018.

Yallop played for Ipswich Town in the English Premier and Championship leagues, and in the MLS for 13 seasons with the San Jose Earthquakes, Los Angeles Galaxy and Chicago Fire.

As a coach, he led the Earthquakes to two MLS Cups (2001, 2003) and a Supporters Shield. He twice was named MLS Coach of the Year, and he also managed Team Canada in World Cup qualifying.

Still to come for the Fresno team: Choosing a nickname, hiring field and additional front-office personnel and finding a place to play among options that include Fresno State’s Soccer & Lacrosse Field.

This story was originally published June 7, 2017 at 10:01 PM with the headline "A former top MLS coach is joining Fresno’s new pro team. Find out who and his role.."