Defensive pieces come into line for Whitecaps after Clement signing

The other shoe has fallen when it comes to the Vancouver Whitecaps’ backline. As soon as centre back Carlyle Mitchell’s loan to FC Edmonton became official on Monday, Whitecaps’ supporters were waiting for news on a new defender who would be joining the team. They got the answer today when the ‘Caps announced that Adam Clement, selected 31st overall in the 2013 Supplemental Draft, has officially become a member of the squad. Clement was a two time Atlantic 10 all-star in his time with Duquesne University. Mitchell was scheduled to be dispatched to FCE right after First Kick weekend; but his loan deal to FCE was delayed after Whitecaps captain and regular CB starter Jay DeMerit tore his Achilles in the home-opener win over Toronto FC. All of a sudden a defender short, the Whitecaps held onto Mitchell — and word was he wasn’t moving to Edmonton until the Whitecaps had lined up another defender to add depth to the centre-back corps. When Mitchell was finally moved on Monday, it was a sign that the signing of that other defender was imminent. “This is a dream come true,” said Clement in a release issued by the Whitecaps. “I’ve heard that Vancouver is an awesome city with amazing fans and I can’t wait to give my all for them.” RELATED: FCE coach Miller worked on Mitchell deal for months; LeRoy returns to Eddies as a trialist (CLICK)