/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/8371895/20120325_kkt_ak6_085.0.jpg)
With rumors about their Captain's health swirling, the Vancouver Whitecaps added some insurance, signing Honduran Center Back Johnny Leveron.
A 23 year old left footer, Leveron joins the 'Caps from the Honduran Club Deportivo Motagua.
He's also Captained the Honduran National squad, and has made 20 appearances there in total.
I was quick to criticize the Whitecaps earlier in the off-season for their lack of depth outside their big two on the backline, Jay Demerit and YP Lee. However, it looks like the 'Caps have tried to address this need, with signings such as Leveron and Brad Rusin.
What does this mean for Jay Demerit? Is this merely a depth signing, or are the Whitecaps concerned about his health moving forward into the MLS season? There have already been reports that Demerit may not be ready for the season opener, as his heel continues to bother him.
However, I would argue that this kid is pretty damn talented, and that he might not be a backup for long. At just 23 years old, his best football is clearly ahead of him, and he has plenty of potential. While Leveron is a center back, it might not be a huge stretch to imagine him at left back, easily the clubs weakest position right now. That would mean keeping Alain Rochat at mid, and bumping Jordan Harvey to bench duty.
All in all, this should be a slam dunk signing, and it's amazing to see the Whitecaps continue to improve their roster with young players. Young players in the MLS! Who woulda thunk it?