14 Nov 2008

Phoenix sign Brazilian midfielder

6:24 pm on 14 November 2008

The Brazilian midfielder Fred is to return to the Australian A league to play six games for the Wellington Phoenix.

The 29-year-old was the driving force behind Melbourne's championship-winning side in 2007.

He'll be able to play in the side's next match against Newcastle in Wellington on Sunday week.

Following his debut season in the A-League, Fred signed with American Major League Soccer club DC United, where he continues to play.

The Phoenix CEO Tony Pignata says Fred's signing comes after eight months of negotiation.

Phoenix head coach Ricki Herbert says Fred is an exciting and proven performer who'll have no problems settling into the Phoenix set-up.

The Phoenix are currently sixth in the eight team competition.