Sporting KC loans Kamara to Norwich City

KANSAS CITY, Kan. - Sporting KC will have to replace their leading scorer for at least a few months. The club announced they have loaned forward Kei Kamara to Norwich City of the English Premier League through May 6. Norwich City will have the option of acquiring Kamara on a full transfer. If they decline that option, Kamara will be able to rejoin Sporting Kansas City after May 6.

Kamara has led the team in scoring each of the last three seasons. He scored a career-high 11 goals and eight assists last season.

"It is a bittersweet day as I am excited to achieve one of my goals, which was to play in the EPL. Being such a positive person, I trust in this decision and am thankful for the opportunity to play at Norwich City through the end of their season. I am grateful for the coaching staff at Sporting KC and especially Peter (Vermes) for believing in me and helping me through this process."

Sporting Kansas City will receive two-thirds of the loan fee as allocation money. In addition, Kamara's contract with MLS has been extended. Vermes explained the club's decision.

"As we do with all of our decisions, we always think about the long-term impact on our organization, as well as the short-term. Ultimately, this opportunity allows us to re-invest back into the club and solidify our core group of players."

Sporting Kansas City lost midfielder Roger Espinoza to the English Premier League earlier in the offseason. The team will begin the 2013 season on March 2.