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Posted by
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May 10, 2017 |
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VANCOUVER, B.C - The Vancouver Whitecaps added some much-needed depth just before the MLS primary transfer window closed on Monday night. The Caps were able to acquire Bernie Ibini from Belgian Pro League side, Club Brugge KV. The 24 year-old Nigerian born and Australian raised Ibini was on loan with A-League side, Sydney FC.
Ibini has spent most of his young career playing in Australia. He has 31 goals and 11 assists in 142 matches with A-League sides Central Coast Mariners FC and Sydney FC. On the international stage, Ibini has a pair of senior caps with Australia.
"Bernie's a young, athletic, forward player," said Coach Carl Robinson. "He can play in multiple positions. Obviously he's got a decent background in relation to the clubs he's been at and what he's done. I still think he's got a huge upside. I think he fits into what we're trying to do here. Obviously we're delighted to get him."
Carl Robinson has not actually watched Ibini live in person. He is putting his trust in his scouts and research department. The 6-foot-2 Ibini has fantastic size, pace, and strength. Robinson sees a bright future for the speedy new target man.
"I haven't seen him play live," admitted Robinson. "People I know that have. Obviously he's been making lots of impact off the bench over there. He missed the grand final unfortunately over there on the weekend, but I think he's ready for a new challenge. We're delighted to have him."
Ibini has been on the Caps radar for the past six months. It was only in the previous three months that negotiations ramped up. Vancouver has signed Ibini through to the end of the 2018 MLS season. Vancouver also has a club option for the following season.
Fans looking to see Ibini in the lineup right away will have to wait. He is dealing with a hamstring injury that caused him to miss the conclusion of the A-League season. Reports suggest he could be sidelined for 10 weeks. Robinson is hoping for a shorter term, but won't know for certain until Ibini has his medical in Vancouver.
"I think he's got a slight hamstring issue which kept him out of the grand final on Sunday. We'll get him over here and we'll assess him. I don't think he'll be too bad, but I'm sure he'll fit in with the group."
Ibini will look to get his belongings and arrangements sorted before flying out to join his new team. When that's exactly going to happen is unknown. The Whitecaps have his all- important ITC (International Transfer Certificate). What can supporters expect to see from Ibibi when he does make his Vancouver Whitecaps FC debut?
"I think they'll see an exciting young player," said Robinson. "Power, strength, he's direct. He's quite an exciting player to watch when he's in full flow, and fully fit. He'll fit into the group very well."
You might see Ibini playing on the right-wing, and also relieving striker Fredy Montero late in matches or if he needs a break during a congested part of the season. The Caps gaffer will also at times play Montero and Ibini together on the pitch in tandem.
With all the injuries that have stricken the Whitecaps squad of late. It was important that the club make a move before the MLS primary transfer window shut. Once Ibini gets fit, and settles in. Vancouver could have another brilliant top winger in the mix.
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