COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC announced on Thursday the signing of New Zealand international Chris James. The signing is pending league and USSF approval.



The 29-year-old James comes to the Switchbacks by way of free agency. James most recently spent time with FC Haka of Finland's Ykkönen. He made 23 appearances and tallied four goals during the 2016 campaign. James is an active member of the New Zealand National Football team where he has 21 caps and three goals, including two in World Cup qualifiers.

James' performance in 2006 earned him the New Zealand Soccer International Young Men's Player of the Year in 2006. With the New Zealand National Under-20 Team he made 8 appearances and tallied 7 goals.



"Chris is an experienced player that will solidify the center of our midfield," said Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh. "He is the vocal and team leader that we need in that position. He has 21 international appearances for New Zealand and most recently been playing in Finland. We expect a lot out of Chris this season and he is willing to be a huge part of us competing for a championship."