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Jack Lynn factor now more important for Orlando City SC

• Lynn ready to start or come off the bench
• Focus and vision are his strengths
• Two goals on six shots through 10 matches

By Chuck Wharton

Jun 28, 2024; Bronx, New York, USA; Orlando City forward Jack Lynn (27) battles New York City FC forward Kevin O'Toole (22) for the ball during the second half at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 28, 2024; Bronx, New York, USA; Orlando City forward Jack Lynn (27) battles New York City FC forward Kevin O'Toole (22) for the ball during the second half at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports / Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
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Sometimes late in an Orlando City SC match, striker Jack Lynn gets a call from the bench.

And sometimes, supporters ask, what is he called on to do? He and head coach Oscar Pareja have an answer to that.

Only last year, Lynn started collecting honors playing for Orlando City B. After winning the Golden Boot, he was named to MLS NEXT Pro’s Best XI. He tallied 34 goals since the start of the previous season, making him the league’s all-time scoring leader.

He moved up to the first team and this season scored his first MLS goal during Orlando City’s first win.

It was during a situation much like the squad finds itself in today. International call-ups had left holes in the roster. So in this appearance, Lynn got a start. They were visiting Austin FC. Midfielder Dagur Thorhallsson served into the box, where Lynn kicked it home.

He also completed a tackle and won a duel.

Jack Lynn, right, battles Ilie Sanchez
Jun 15, 2024; Orlando, Florida, USA; LAFC midfielder Ilie Sanchez (6) and Orlando City forward Jack Lynn (27) battle for the ball in the second half at Inter&Co Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports / Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports

When the team isn’t partly depleted by call-ups, Pareja said Lynn is just as valuable. First, he’s brought the focus and consistent effort he learned playing for the B squad. On the bench, he concentrates on the game as if any minute he could be called onto the pitch.

Pareja describes his effort as always being there when the team needs him in a situation.

It was in the 15th minute when Lynn was sent in against the San Jose Earthquakes this season. Lynn said all bench players prepare for game situations as if they are starting. So the early sub didn’t present an extra challenge.

So in his vision, he followed midfielder Martin Ojeda sprinting on the sideline. He sent the ball to Lynn, who affected another pass that went in for a score.

He’s played 16 games total for the first team, 10 this season, He scored two goals in six shots. In the 250 minutes he’s played this season, he’s won 25% of his 16 aerial duels.

Pareja recognizes Lynn as someone with the focus to help turn the season around for Orlando City SC. It doesn’t matter whether he starts or comes off the bench.

And his skills are still developing and getting stronger.