The defence of second-year franchise Seattle Sounders is beginning to take shape after the announcements of key signings.
Earlier this week, Sounders general manager Adrian Hanauer announced the permanent deal for Jhon Kennedy Hurtado as well as the re-signing of Tyson Wahl, both solid contributors in the back half last season.
Add to that the extension of USA international Brad Evans' contract and things are looking healthy at Qwest Field.
Sounders coach Sigi Schmid said the improvement made by Wahl last season was a major plus and admitted he was looking for more players to follow the 25-year olds lead.
"Guys who needed to work and improve on things in the offseason definitely worked on that and improved themselves. Tyson Wahl is a good example," Schmid said. "... He's starting to push as an outside back. He's got that in his mind now that I can play outside back."