Toronto FC announced Friday the club has signed midfielder Darel Russell. As per team and league policy terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Russell, 32, most recently played for Portsmouth F.C. (Portsmouth) of England’s League One, making 18 appearances this season. Russell began his youth career at Norwich City F.C. (Norwich City) and signed with the First Team ahead of the 1997-98 season. After six seasons at Norwich City, Russell joined Stoke City F.C. (Stoke) in 2003. During his time with Stoke, Russell made over 180 appearances and played in a number of different roles in midfield and defence.

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In 2007, Russell returned to Norwich City. He helped the Canaries win League One during the 2009-10 season, gaining promotion into the Championship. Following that season, Russell signed with Preston North End F.C. He was loaned to Charlton Athletic F.C. during the 2011-12 season, and he was part of Charlton’s League One Championship side. He joined Portsmouth last summer and remained with the club until January 2013.

“We're fortunate to add a player of Darel's experience and versatility to our team” said Toronto FC President and General Manager Kevin Payne. “We expect him to help at several positions for us this year.”
Russell joined Toronto FC as a trialist last month during preseason in Orlando.

Darel Russell #16
Position: Midfielder
Height: 5’10
Weight:  163
Birthdate: October 22, 1980
Birth Place: Mile End, England
Hometown: Mile End, England
Nationality: British
Last Club: Portsmouth F.C.
How Acquired: Signed with Toronto FC on Friday, March 1, 2013
Pronunciation: “Russ-ell”