Former Watford captain Jay DeMerit will officially be announced as MLS expansion franchise Vancouver Whitecaps first signing on Thursday.

The 30-year old USA international defender has been without a club since the Hornets released him in June but is almost certain to be captured by the Whitecaps who will make a major announcement.

DeMerit played every minute of all four matches for the US at the World Cup after spending six seasons with Watford where he notched up close to 200 league appearances.

The media conference will take place at 10 a.m. PT and Whitecaps FC fans will be able to see Thursday's exciting announcement streamed live at whitecapsfc.com.