The Missouri Comets are bringing back a familiar face before Friday’s season opener: Will John.

FIFA approved the loan of John, a former MLS player, to the Comets from PFK Oleksandria of the Ukraine, the Comets said.

John, who is the son of former Comets star Emilio John, attended Rockhurst High School. After playing for St. Louis University and the Kansas City Brass for two seasons, John was drafted by the Chicago Fire in 2005.

After the season, he was traded to the Wizards for Diego Gutierrez. John was with the team for two years before taking his talents to Europe.

However, he played three games for the Comets in 2010.

The Comets open their season Friday against the Wichita Wings at 7:35 p.m. at the Independence Events Center.

| Pete Grathoff, pgrathoff@kcstar.com