http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/945104/rangers-sign-usa-defender-carlos-bocanegra?cc=4716Rangers sign Bocanegra
August 17, 2011
Rangers have signed United States defender Carlos Bocanegra on a three-year deal.
Former Fulham defender Carlos Bocanegra returns to Britain after three years in France
Ally McCoist's recruitment drive has gathered pace over the last few days and former Fulham full-back Bocanegra, 32, is the latest to arrive at Ibrox.
Bocanegra, who joins from French side St Etienne, could play in Thursday's Europa League play-off against Maribor should he receive international clearance.
The Scottish Premier League champions confirmed the signing of midfielder Alejandro Bedoya on a three-year contract from Swedish side Orebro earlier on Wednesday as McCoist seeks to add strength to his squad.
Bedoya is now joined by his compatriot, United States skipper Bocanegra, who has been plying his trade in Ligue 1 with Rennes and St Etienne since leaving Fulham in 2008.
St Etienne had insisted Bocanegra was not for sale and a spokesman recently insisted: "We haven't received any contact from Rangers.
"The position of Saint-Etienne is clear. We want to keep Carlos. He is not available for transfer. We have a very young defence and we need Carlos to lead those players. If Rangers were to get in touch, we would tell them he is not for sale."
However, Rangers managed to negotiate a deal with Les Verts and will hope the veteran can boost their ailing defence tomorrow night, with David Weir and Kyle Bartley injured and Steven Whittaker and Sasa Papac suspended.
