IRVINE, Calif. – Orange County Blues FC announced on Thursday the signings of former New York City FC defender Kwame Watson-Siriboe and Canadian winger A.J. Gray.

Watson-Siriboe joins the Blues following a career in Major League Soccer which dates back to 2010. He joins the Blues from NYCFC, for which he made 12 appearances and scored one goal. Watson-Siriboe had previously played for Real Salt Lake, and also previously spent time on loan with the Blues in the 2014 USL season.  

“Signing a player such as Kwame with his ability and experience in the MLS is further evidence of the direction this club is heading in,” said Blues General Manager and Head Coach Oliver Wyss. “He has played at the top level in the United States with some fantastic teams in the MLS. He is a leader and brings a real physical presence to the backline, with the recent additions we’ve made I am confident we will continue to improve and secure our place in the playoffs.”

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Gray most recently competed for FC Haka in Finland’s second division. A former member of the Toronto FC Academy, the 28-year-old competed for St. Francis Xavier University before turning professional in Sweden. Gray was previously a member of the Canadian U20 National Team.

“AJ is an exciting addition to the squad,” said Wyss. “He comes with great experience in Europe and at a good age which will bring a level of maturity to the squad.”