USL Pro expansion franchise Sacramento Republic has entered into a shared affiliation with two MLS clubs.
The Portland Timbers and San Jose Earthquakes will join forces with the Californian outfit for the 2014 season meaning neither of the top flight clubs will participate in the MLS reserve league this year.
"We are excited to team up with Republic FC as our USL PRO affiliate," Earthquakes president Dave Kaval said in a statement.
"Establishing a USL PRO affiliation is a critical step in our continued investment in player development that includes our Academy, our PDL team, and our Homegrown player efforts. Beyond the player-development benefits, we feel that it is important to help develop professional soccer in Sacramento with an eye to eventually making it a home for its very own MLS team."
Timbers general manager Gavin Wilkinson added: "We are pleased to form an affiliation with Sacramento Republic FC for 2014.
"This partnership allows us the ability to aid in the development of players by getting them more consistent playing time in a competitive environment while helping Republic FC strive for success on the field."
