Quakes Announce Huckerby Signing

The San Jose Earthquakes announced today that the team has signed English forward Darren Huckerby. Per league and team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Huckerby signed with the Earthquakes after San Jose acquired his rights from Toronto FC in exchange for allocation money and an international player slot. He will be added to the roster pending the arrival of his ITC and approval of his visa.

“Darren should make an immediate impact on our team with his ability to go forward,” said General Manager of Soccer Operations John Doyle. “He can score goals and create goals, and he brings with him a wealth of experience in top leagues. We are excited to add a player of his experience and quality to our team.”

Huckerby, 32, joins the Earthquakes after spending the last five seasons with Norwich City, located in Northeastern English coastal county, Norfolk. A fan favorite for the Canaries from 2003-2008, he appeared in over 200 matches, scoring 32 goals. He netted a goal in his final game for Norwich City against Sheffield Wednesday in a 4-1 win in May. During Huckerby’s first season with Norwich from 2003-2004, he was crucial in the team’s promotion from League One to the English Premier League, the club’s first top flight status since 1995. He scored 14 goals that season. Huckerby was also voted Norwich player of the year by the club’s supporters for his performances during the 2004-2005 and 2006-2007 league seasons. He has been named to the club’s all-time Best XI.

“I have been a fan of Darren’s play in England for a number of years,” said Earthquakes head coach Frank Yallop. “He has had a very impressive career over there and we are looking forward to bringing his exciting style of play here to the Earthquakes.”

The Nottingham native has also had spells with other English clubs, including Manchester City, where he appeared in 69 matches between 2000-2003, scoring 22 times. He helped Manchester City capture the Division One title in 2002.

Prior to playing for Manchester City, he played parts of two seasons for Leeds United, making 40 appearances in league play, while also appearing in six UEFA Cup matches. He scored three goals in all competitions.

The striker also spent time at Coventry City between 1996-1999, appearing in over 90 matches and scoring 28 goals for the team. He helped Coventry maintain a spot in the Premier League in 1996. He started his career in 1993 with Lincoln City, where he played until 1995, with 28 appearances, scoring five times.