Republic Add Defensive Reinforcements

Sacramento Republic FC announced Monday the signing of defender Chris Christian for the 2016 USL season. Christian recently played with the USL's Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC and the defunct Atlanta Silverbacks FC of the NASL. Republic fans may remember him from last year's 1-0 loss at Bonney Field when the Switchbacks parked the bus after an early goal.

Christian began the 2015 season for the Atlanta Silverbacks, playing in two games before joining the Switchbacks on loan. Christian played in five matches for the Switchbacks and helped to secure a third place finish in the Western Conference.

"Chris first caught my eye in the two games we played against Switchbacks FC," said Sacramento Republic FC Head Coach and Technical Director Paul Buckle in a press release. "He played a major role in the matches and was very dominant in the 18-yard box. That was when I first took note of him."

Christian also has some international experience, having played for Motor Lubin in Poland and the Liberty Professionals FC of the Ghanaian Premier League.

At 6-1, Christian is expected to shore up the center back spot and may even see some time at defensive midfield if Buckle's other press release comments are any indication. "Chris gives us a nice balance in the center half position, as well as the holding role in midfield," he said. "He is serious about his football and excited to be joining our club."

Christian is the third free agent signing that Sacramento has made this season and the first since fellow defender Mike da Fonte's signing last December. More signings are expected prior to the start of Republic training camp February 1.

What do you think about the Republic's new center back? Let us know down in the comments.