Orlando City Officially Signs Defender Sean St. Ledger

After weeks as a trialist, Sean St. Ledger is officially a Lion.

Orlando City SC has just officially announced the signing of the Republic of Ireland international for the 2015 MLS season. St. Ledger had become the prohibitive favorite to start at center back alongside Aurelien Collin if the club ever signed him and that has finally happened.

"We're delighted to have Sean on our roster, as he brings a lot of experience at the club and international level," said Head Coach Adrian Heath in a press release. "He's a very versatile defender who is comfortable playing in several positions along the backline, which is a big bonus for the squad."

The 30-year-old St. Ledger has a lot of experience, with 190 matches with various English clubs, including Preston North End, Middlesbrough and Leicester City. The 6-foot, 168-pound defender has also made over 30 appearances for the Irish National Team, scoring goals in 2010 FIFA World Cup qualification, the 2012 UEFA Euro qualification and the 2012 UEFA European Championship.

What does this mean for Orlando City?

St. Ledger will likely start on Sunday. The Lions should be at the roster limit of 30. The rosters handed out at Media Day yesterday listed 29 players, but it is unclear if injured Tally Hall counts against the first-team roster. As it currently stands, Orlando City probably doesn’t have to loan anyone out to Louisville City FC.

That doesn't mean they won't. Adrian Heath may want to get some of the non-starters game experience. St. Ledger won't be one of those non-starters if the final few preseason games are any indication. The experienced Irishman has been a steady and vocal performer on the back line for the Lions.

It remains to be seen if trialist Cesar Mena will also be signed.