MLS Colorado Rapids

New Signing Zat Knight Returns

Published on October 1, 2014 under Major League Soccer (MLS)
Colorado Rapids News Release


COMMERCE CITY, Colo. - The Colorado Rapids announced today the signing of Zat Knight, an English defender with extensive experience in the English Premier League. Knight will occupy Colorado's seventh International slot. Knight was listed on the 2014 roster prior to the freeze date pending a P-1 visa, which he has now acquired. Per league and team policy, terms of the contract are not disclosed.

"Zat brings to the table extremely valuable experience and a veteran voice that can immediately make an impact on the field," said Head Coach Pablo Mastroeni. "In just the week that he was here for training, he already had the respect of players, and we're excited to see him in action and what he can bring to the club in our last few games."

The 6-foot-6 defender began his career with Fulham in 1999, playing seven seasons with the London club and helping them win promotion to the Premier League in 2001. In 2007 he left the club to join Aston Villa for the next two seasons, where he played 40 matches and contributed two goals. He made the move to Bolton Wanderers in 2009 and went on to play there for the following five years, being named captain in 2013. Knight scored four goals in his 191 appearances through five seasons with the Wanderers.

"It's been a long process, getting all the paperwork finished, but I'm really thrilled to be here," said Knight. "I've followed the club's matches while being back in England and am working hard to get into the mix quickly and contribute the best I can for the final matches of the season."

For the England national team, Knight, now 34 years old, made the first of two career appearances as a second half sub against the United States on May 28, 2005 at Soldier Field, in a 2-1 win for England. Three days later, he played the full 90 minutes against Colombia in New Jersey.

Knight arrived in Denver on Tuesday evening and will be eligible for Colorado's match against Seattle Sounders FC at Dick's Sporting Goods Park this Sunday, kick-off 1 p.m MT. For more information on the game, or to purchase tickets, call 303-825-GOAL or visit www.ColoradoRapids.com.

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