SEATTLE, WASHINGTON (Aug. 8, 2018) — Climbing up the Western Conference ladder isn’t the only move the Seattle Sounders FC organization is doing.

The club announced the acquisition of defender Brad Smith, Wednesday afternoon. Smith, a 24-year-old from Penrith, Australia, will remain with the Sounders on a season-long loan from AFC Bournemouth.

Seattle Sounders FC Acquire Brad Smith on Loan From AFC Bournemouth

Despite being signed by the club in 2016, Smith made only five appearances for the English Premier League team. He has fellow EPL experience with Liverpool, where he signed in 2013 and remained until 2016.

Smith made five appearances for the senior Liverpool team. However, he rose up through the club’s youth system, after moving to England at 14 years old.

“Combined with his background, Brad’s significant speed and versatility on the flanks make our team immediately better for the stretch run of the season,” Garth Lagerwey, Sounders general manager and president of soccer, said. “We believe he can help our club continue its climb up the table and into the MLS Cup Playoffs.”

Chris Henderson, Sounders vice president of soccer and sporting director, said that Smith was originally viewed through scouts. However, the decision to bring him to Seattle was “straightforward.”

“Anytime you can add someone entering the prime of their career with the type of background Brad brings to the table, it’s only going to make your team stronger,” Henderson said.

Smith joins a defense that has been consistent and strong for the Sounders. Meanwhile, Kim Kee-Hee and Chad Marshall have solidified a partnership on the back-line, featuring as the club’s centerbacks.

However, while Nouhou has earned his starting spot on the left, the right back position has swapped hands a multitude of times. Recently, Jordan McCrary has featured in the position. Waylon Francis is also a familiar face on defense for Seattle.

Smith’s primary position is left-back, left winger.

“Brad is a good player with a strong background and a skill set that we believe fits the style we want to play in the most important part of our season,” Brian Schmetzer, Sounders head coach, said. “He has participated at some of the elite levels of professional football, and we think he can give us some immediate help down the homestretch.”

Smith’s international experience with Australia has earned him 19 appearances. However, he was left off the team’s roster for the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Meanwhile, he did make 12 World Cup qualifying appearances.

✈ Now Arriving: Brad Smith

Watch @bradsmith_94's first moments in his new home. 🏡 pic.twitter.com/w2mczTPpjo

— Seattle Sounders FC (@SoundersFC) August 8, 2018

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