Photo by ISIPhotos.com
By DAN KARELL
Though they were in the works for a while, the San Jose Earthquakes made official three new signings for the upcoming Major League Soccer season.
The Earthquakes announced on Friday the signings of right back Brandon Barklage, left back Shaun Francis, and goalkeeper Bryan Meredith. Per league and team policy, terms of the deals were not disclosed.
Both Barklage and Francis were selected by the Earthquakes in stage two of the MLS Re-Entry Draft and are likely being signed to replace last year’s full backs Justin Morrow and Steven Beitashour. Morrow was dealt to Toronto FC this offseason while Beitashour is rumored to be heading to Europe this winter, though nothing has been finalized.
Barklage joins from the New York Red Bulls while Francis spent last season between the Charlotte Eagles and Chicago Fire.
Meredith comes to the Earthquakes after a short stint as a backup for the New York Cosmos, though he didn’t make an appearance with the club during his time there. Meredith spent the 2011 and 2012 seasons with the Seattle Sounders before spending the first half of 2013 in Sweden with IK Brage.
It’s likely that Meredith will back up veteran Earthquakes goalkeeper Jon Busch, who is entering his 18th professional season (13th season in MLS).
——-
What do you think of this news? Do you see Barklage and Francis starting next season? Think that Beitashour could return to the Earthquakes?
Share your thoughts below.