Defender joins from Arsenal PORTLAND, Ore.— The Portland Timbers have signed English defender Kerrea (KAIR-ree) Gilbert, it was announced today. Gilbert joins the Timbers for their Major League Soccer debut in 2011 from English club Arsenal FC. Timbers general manager/technical director Gavin Wilkinson made the announcement. Additionally, the Timbers today acquired a natural fourth-round pick from the Houston Dynamo in the 2014 SuperDraft in exchange for defender Jordan Graye. Gilbert, 23, was a member of Arsenal’s first team for five seasons from 2005-10; he was a product of the English Premier League club’s youth system. Gilbert played in 12 matches for Arsenal, including a pair of UEFA Champions League fixtures, and spent time on loan with English clubs Cardiff City FC (2006-07), Southend United FC (2007-08), Leicester City FC (2008-09) and Peterborough United FC (2009-10). In total, he appeared in 92 matches, registering a goal and an assist during his career in England. “Kerrea is an experienced, young player who has competed at the highest levels in England,” said Wilkinson. “The Timbers are committed to building an athletic, talented and hard-working squad, and we feel that he will be a great fit for our organization.” http://portlandtimbers.com/news/2010/12/timbers-sign-english-defender-kerrea-gilbert
