The New York Red Bulls announced the signing of former Everton midfielder Tim Cahill as their third Designated Player on Thursday. Cahill was acquired through a transfer fee to Everton. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Cahill will be added to the Red Bulls' roster as soon as he receives his visa and transfer certificate. An official press conference introducing Cahill to the media will be held on Monday.
Red Bulls general manager Erik Soler said about Cahill, "We are absolutely thrilled to bring in a player of Tim's caliber to the Red Bulls. He is the technical, physical presence we have been looking to add in our team and he brings a wealth of experience to our club having played in some of the highest levels of international soccer. Tim is a proven leader both on and off the field and we believe that he can help us immediately in our quest to win the MLS Cup this season."
Cahill was also thrilled about joining New York, saying, "I am very happy to start a new chapter of my career with the New York Red Bulls. As we have seen over the past few years, MLS has developed into a very competitive league with many talented players. I am impressed with what the Red Bulls are trying to accomplish in MLS and within American soccer and I am looking forward to this new challenge. I will do everything I can to help bring New York its first MLS Cup."
Cahill also was gracious about leaving his old club.
"I also want to thank everyone at Everton, from the club to tremendous supporters. It has been a privilege to be an Everton player for the past eight years and it was a very difficult decision to leave. I will always support Everton and I wish the club the best of luck in the future."
Cahill, 32, scored 68 goals in eight seasons with Everton. Before joining Everton, Cahill scored 56 times in 249 matches for Milwall. The Australian international has also scored 24 goals in 55 matches for his national team.
Cahill was in training at the Red Bulls facility at Montclair State University on Thursday. The team has not indicated what match they think he will make his debut in.
For more on the Red Bulls 2012 season, stay tuned to our StoryStream. See SB Nation's Once A Metro for more discussion of the Red Bulls.