The Vancouver Whitecaps are in sore need of defensive help, and they might just have found a player who can help them shore things up.
The Whitecaps announced on Monday that they have signed Canadian international defender David Edgar to an 18-month contract with an option. Edgar, 29, most recently played for English side Sheffield United on loan from Birmingham City. The 6-foot-4 center back returns to his homeland after playing his entire career to date in England.
"We are thrilled to add David to the group," said Whitecaps head coach Carl Robinson in a club statement. "He is a good size, a natural organizer, and brings a wealth of playing experience at very good levels in England from a young age."
A free agent, Edgar arrives in Vancouver after training with them last month during a road trip in Toronto, Ontario. He made 35 starts in 36 league appearances for Sheffield United during the 2015-16 campaign, scoring two goals.
Edgar has gained experience from playing for several clubs throughout England's top divisions. In addition to Sheffield United and Birmingham City, he has suited up for Huddersfield Town, Burnley, Swansea City and Newcastle United.
Edgar will be counted on to improve a Whitecaps defense that has conceded 33 goals through 19 matches this season. The club currently sits in sixth place in the Western Conference, even on points with the Portland Timbers and ahead only due to a better goal differential.
"I'm delighted to sign for Whitecaps FC and especially to be back in Canada," said Edgar. "After all my years in England, it has always been in my plans to come and be a part of MLS. I'm very excited for this next step in my career and to be a part of a fantastic organization like Whitecaps FC.
"I already feel at home at BC Place being part of the Canadian national team and the recent World Cup qualifiers here. Hopefully there are many more exciting times ahead for the fans and for this team. I can't wait to get started."
At the international level, Edgar has started 34 of his 37 appearances for Canada. He has scored three goals for Les Rouges and captained the team during his two most recent appearances, including a 2-1 win over Uzbekistan on June 7 in which he scored a goal.
