United announced today the club has signed veteran defender Avery John. D.C. waived forward Francis Doe in order to make a roster spot available for the Trinidad and Tobago international. John’s rights were acquired from the New England Revolution in exchange for a conditional draft pick in either the 2010 or 2011 MLS SuperDraft. The 33-year old defender will be available for selection on Sunday, when the Black-and Red travel to New Jersey to battle their Atlantic Cup rivals the New York Red Bulls. Kick-off is set for 3:00 p.m. ET before a nationwide television audience on Telefutura.
John joins United having last played for Miami FC (USL-1). Born June 18, 1975, the defender saw time in 15 games last season with the Blues. From 2004-2007, John saw action in 63 games (60 starts) as a member of the Revolution, appearing with his club in the 2006 and 2007 MLS Cup Finals. He previously played professionally in Ireland with Bohemian F.C. Dublin, Shelbourne United and Longford Townand, and in the USL with the Boston Bulldogs and the New Orleans Riverboat Gamblers. As an American University senior in 1997, John helped the Eagles win the CAA Championship and led the team to the NCAA Quarterfinals.
John also brings a wealth of international experience to the Black-and-Red. A fixture on the Trinidad and Tobago national side, John saw time for the Soca Warriors in three World Cup Qualifiers in 2008, has totaled 82 international appearances for his country and saw time in the 2006 FIFA World Cup.
Doe leaves the District having originally signed with United on April 22, 2008. The forward dealt with some injuries soon after his signing, but ended up playing in 12 League matches (four starts) last season. His two League goals came in United’s 2-1 win over the New England Revolution on October 16. In all competitions, Doe scored seven goals in 19 games (11 starts) for the Black-and-Red. This season, the forward made just two League appearances, both as a substitute, totaling 40 minutes.
“We want to thank Francis for his contributions to D.C. United and we wish him the best of luck in the future,” said Kasper.