Atlanta United today announced the signing of 28-year-old midfielder Chris McCann, pending receipt of his P-1 Visa and ITC. McCann joins Atlanta from English Championship club Wigan Athletic.

“We are thrilled Chris has chosen to sign for Atlanta United, he is a player we feel will be very important as we build our roster,” said Atlanta United technical director Carlos Bocanegra. “With over 350 first team appearances and premiership experience, he will bring a valuable veteran presence onto the field and into our locker room.”

McCann, a native of Dublin, Ireland came up through the Home Farm F.C. youth system and represented Ireland as a youth international at the U-17, U-18 and U-19 levels.

McCann moved to England and joined Burnley F.C. in 2005 where he made over 200 appearances and scored 27 goals. Playing under manager Owen Coyle, McCann was a standout performer making 58 appearances with eight goals during the 2008-09 season, helping the Clarets secure a promotion to the Premier League with a victory in the Football League Championship Play-off final.

McCann joined Wigan Athletic on a free transfer in 2013. Playing once again under Coyle, McCann had 38 appearances and three goals for Wigan in his first year. He added 18 appearances in the 2014-15 season.

“We see Chris coming in to play a midfield role, but having the capacity to play in defense as well,” said Bocanegra. “He has good versatility, technical ability and can contribute with goals and assists from various positions on the field.”

McCann will go out on loan until he arrives in Atlanta in January.