Wisconsin Soccer Central

Former University of Wisconsin teammates Drew Conner and A.J. Cochran are teammates once again.

Major League Soccer's Chicago Fire loaned Conner, a 22-year-old midfielder, to their USL affiliate Saint Louis FC on Friday. Terms of the loan allow the Fire to recall Conner at any point during the MLS season.

"Drew is a hard working, tough, box-to-box central midfielder. He has good feet and can get himself out of tough spots," Saint Louis FC coach Dale Schilly said in a news release. "I'm eager to see him develop his skills as a professional."

Conner signed a homegrown contract with the Fire in December after being a four-year starter for the Badgers. He had six goals and 12 assists in 73 appearances (all starts), missing just four games in his college career.

During his first two seasons at UW, he played in front of center back Cochran, who signed with Saint Louis FC earlier this month. Conner didn't make the game-day roster for any of the Fire's first three MLS matches this season, and was loaned to Saint Louis FC along with defender Patrick Doody.

"Patrick and Drew need games to remain game fit and sharp," Fire general manager Nelson Rodriguez said in a news release. "In addition, we know they will receive excellent training, as well as a warm reception from the great fans of Saint Louis FC."

Conner made his professional debut Saturday night, coming off the bench to play the final 7 minute of Saint Louis FC's 1-0 loss to Real Monarchs SLC in Sandy, Utah, in both teams' season opener.

On Twitter: @Drew_Conner1

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