Expansion franchise Portland Timbers have announced the first group of players who will represent them in MLS next season.

The Timbers have signed four players for their inaugural season, three of whom are already Timbers players, and a further addition from USL opponent Austin Aztex.

Forward Bright Dike, midfielder Ryan Pore and goalkeeper Steve Cronin have all been kept on to move into the top flight whilst former Aztex striker Eddie Johnson will join the trio as the Timbers prepare for their promotion in 2011.