By Marc Weber
The Vancouver Whitecaps announced Wednesday morning the transfer of forward Marcus Haber to English Championship side West Bromwich Albion for an undisclosed fee.
Haber, 21 next week, is a speedy 6-foot-3 striker from Vancouver. This is his second go-around in Europe, having been a youth player for Dutch side FC Groningen.
Haber was the Whitecaps' newcomer of the year and fan favourite in 2009. He was also the United Soccer League's First Division rookie of the year after scoring eight times in league and adding four assists. He netted 12 goals in all competitions, second best on the squad.
Haber is not the first player to have ties to the Caps and Baggies in his career. David Cross, Glen Johnson, Willie Johnston and Carl Valentine share that honour with him.
Combined with the release of leading scorer Charles Gbeke, the Caps have 20 league goals missing from last year's lineup.
The Major League Soccer combine — a showcase for college players — is this weekend in Florida and Whitecaps brass will be there. Last season, head coach Teitur Thordarson plucked Wes Knight from the MLS combine.
Up front right now, the Caps have veteran Marlon James and residency products Randy Edwini-Bonsu and Dever Orgill. © Copyright (c) The Province
