FC Cincinnati signs former Arsenal defender

LIVERPOOL, UNITED KINGDOM - MARCH 08: Steven Pienaar of Everton is challenged by Justin Hoyte of Middlesbrough during the FA Cup Sponsored by E.on 6th Round match between Everton and Middlesbrough at Goodison Park on March 8, 2009 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

LIVERPOOL, UNITED KINGDOM - MARCH 08: Steven Pienaar of Everton is challenged by Justin Hoyte of Middlesbrough during the FA Cup Sponsored by E.on 6th Round match between Everton and Middlesbrough at Goodison Park on March 8, 2009 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

FC Cincinnati on Wednesday announced the signing of Justin Hoyte, a defender who spent two seasons with Arsenal F.C. in the English Premier League.

“To add a player that has Premier League experience is a major addition to our squad,” FC Cincinnati coach Alan Koch said. “Justin’s personality and humbleness for someone who has already achieved a significant amount in the game is enriching for our group. Our younger players can use him as a mentor as they grow their careers. I also know that Justin is incredibly motivated to be successful here in North America and I look forward to working with him. He is a versatile defender and will compete for a starting position in our team immediately.”

Hoyte, 32, was a member of the Arsenal team that won the 2003-04 Premier League championship. he played with Arsenal for two seasons before being loaned to Sunderland. In 2008, he joined Middlesbrough FC (Premier League) and played five seasons. In 2013, he was loaned to Millwall FC while the club was in the Championship. Hoyte became a free agent in 2015 and signed with Dagenham & Redbridge FC of the National league.

Hoyte, a native of London, England, was a member of the England Youth national teams and also played for the Trinidad and Tobago national team.

About the Author