Chester, Pa. (September 13, 2011) – Philadelphia Union today announced the signing of English defender Joe Tait from USL Professional Division club Dayton Dutch Lions after the 21-year-old spent the past three weeks on trial. Per Major League Soccer and club policy, the terms of the acquisition will not be disclosed.

While on trial with the Union, Tait appeared in two MLS Reserve League matches, a 1-0 loss to the Columbus Crew and a 2-0 victory over the New England Revolution in which Tait registered an assist. The Englishman also scored in a 5-3 win over the Harrisburg City Islanders in an exhibition match.

Tait turned pro in 2006 with English League One side Hartlepool United and later debuted for the first team in a 1-1 draw against Falkirk in 2007. Prior to his debut, the Middlesbrough native captained the youth team to the League Cup final in 2007. The defender then moved to lead the reserves to the Division One East title of the Central League, currently known as The Totesport.com League.

Tait moved to the United States in 2010 when he signed with the Baton Rouge Capitals of the USL Premier Development League. In his first season, the defender was named 2010 PDL Defender of the Year while leading his side to a third place finish.

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Additionally, Union forward Levi Houapeu has been placed on the Disabled/Season Ending Injury list due to a left ankle strain. Drafted with the 41st overall pick of the 2011 SuperDraft, Houpeau featured for the Union in MLS Reserve League play, but didn't make a league appearance.

Name: Joseph Tait

Position: Defender

Height: 6-1

Weight: 181

Born: 04.02.1990

Birthplace: Middlesbrough, England

Citizenship: British

Last Club: Dayton Dutch Lions (USL-Pro)

Pronunciation: Joe Tate