RENO, Nev. – Reno 1868 FC announced on Tuesday it had signed Brent Richards, pending league and federation approval. Richards is expected to play a key defensive role alongside Brenton Griffiths and Jordan Murrell in the expansion club’s inaugural season.

“Brent is very versatile,” said 1868 FC Head Coach Ian Russell. “He’s a wide player who is comfortable in the midfield and the back line.”

Richards, 26, was the first Homegrown Player signing for the Portland Timbers prior to the 2012 MLS season, having previously shone for the Portland Timbers U-23s in the PDL. Richards made 37 appearances for the Timbers U-23s over three seasons, scoring 26 goals, and in 2010 helped the side claim the PDL Championship with what is currently the only perfect season in league history.