FS Jelgava has added Ukrainian right-winger Artem Kholod to their squad to try to avoid relegation from the Virsliga. The 24-year-old Kholod, who was last with Chernomorets 1919 Burgas in Bulgaria, joins as the club’s eighth foreign player this season.
Kholod’s career has seen him play for various clubs across Europe and the United States. Starting his professional journey with Shakhtar Donetsk, he progressed through their youth system before moving to the senior team. He gained further experience with loan spells at FK Mariupol and Metalist 1925 in Ukraine. Kholod later moved to the United States, joining El Paso Locomotive in the USL Championship, before returning to Europe with Chernomorets 1919 Burgas. His stint in Bulgaria saw him score three goals in 10 appearances in the Vtora Liga, the second-strongest competition in Bulgaria.
Kholod also has international experience, having represented Ukraine at the U19 level, earning six caps and scoring two goals.
Jelgava currently sits at the bottom of the Virsliga table, with 20 points from 28 matches and a goal difference of -46. With just five wins this season, they are in a precarious position and urgently need a turnaround to secure their top-flight status. Jelgava’s next fixture is crucial. They play against FK Tukums on Sunday, September 15, 2024, at 3:00 PM.