VANCOUVER, BC - Another integral piece on the Vancouver Whitecaps FC backline has been locked into a contract extension.



The club announced on Tuesday that left back Marcel de Jong has agreed to a contract that would keep the long-time Canadian international with Vancouver through 2019, with an option for 2020.



Along with captain Kendall Waston and second-year right back Jake Nerwinski, de Jong is the third 'Caps defender in the last four months to sign an extension through at least the end of next season.



"Since his first day with the club, Marcel has been the consummate professional," said head coach Carl Robinson. "He's a competitor, he sets the standard at training, and we've seen the results on the pitch. Marcel and his family have embraced Vancouver and this club and we are thrilled to have Marcel agree."



Whitecaps FC left back Marcel de Jong

2018 BC Children's Hospital Foundation Jeans Day ambassador

31 starts and 37 appearances across all competitions for Whitecaps FC, with three assists

Started all three 2017 MLS Cup Playoffs matches

Has started eight of 11 matches to begin the 2018 season, leads the team with 18 interceptions, and third in tackles won with 13

55 international appearances and three goals for Canada