Team Liquid Adds Veteran Mid Laner Austin “Link” Shin for NA LCS Spring Split
In a surprising move, Team Liquid has announced the addition of Austin “Link” Shin to its lineup for the upcoming NA LCS Spring Split. Despite already signing a full roster for the 2017 season, Liquid saw the need for greater depth in the mid lane and brought back the seasoned veteran after his long hiatus.
Last seen playing for Counter Logic Gaming, Link enjoyed a successful career with the team. Starting with CLG Black in 2012, he quickly rose to the main squad and spent 18 months representing the organization. During his time with CLG, Link consistently made it to playoffs every Split and even attained second place at IEM Cologne in 2014, following his semifinal appearance in 2013.
However, since parting ways with CLG in May 2015, Link has been out of the competitive scene. His departure from the team was accompanied by the release of an 18-page statement, which has since been deleted, where he criticized star player Yiliang “Doublelift”.
Link is the second new addition to Team Liquid this offseason, joining jungler Kim “Reignover” Yeu-jin. The team also retained top laner Samson “Lourlo” Jackson, mid laner Greyson “Goldenglue” Gilmer, and support Matt “Matt” Elento. Additionally, AD carry Gwang-jin “Piglet” Chae has returned to Team Liquid after his time with Team Liquid Academy.
With two experienced mid laners on their roster, Liquid plans to rotate between Goldenglue and Link throughout the season. Riot’s official contracts database also confirms Liquid’s substitute players, Lyonel “Arcsecond” Pfaender and He “Viper” Hao, along with head coach David “Varsix” Lim replacing David Lim, who took on the role in September after Choi “Locodoco” Yoon-sub.
Stay tuned for more updates on Team Liquid as they prepare for the NA LCS Spring Split.
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