Auckland City FC will be missing a couple of familiar faces in their line-up come the 2020 OFC Champions League after Micah Lea’alafa and Dan Morgan picked up contracts in South Africa.

Solomon Islands dual international, Lea’alafa and New Zealand’s Morgan penned professional contracts with South Africa’s  Maritzburg United FC this week.

Club chairman Farook Kadodia confirmed both players have signed two-year deals, with the option of a further year.

Kadodia believes 28-year-old Morgan will bring added physicality to the United rearguard.

“The club has struggled for a while for a specialised left-footed full-back,” Kadodia told the club’s website.

“We believe Dan Morgan will give us the attributes required in this position, and this will increase the coach’s options in terms of defensive formations as the season progresses. He comes with good pedigree and will also be an asset when defending set pieces.”

In addition, the side will be looking to Lea’alafa to provide increased attacking impetus.

“Micah is an attacking midfielder or winger and we believe he will be a good fit for the team and combine well with the other midfielders we have and will provide the X-factor we’re looking for on the front line,” Kadodia added.

Lea’alafa, 28, scored 18 goals in his 45 league matches, as well as five goals in four matches in this year’s OFC Champions League.