Jean Philippe officially signs; will travel to New York

Peguero Jean Philippe works out with the team in Santa Clara on Wednesday. Photo by Joe Santos/centerlinesoccer.com

The San Jose Earthquakes’ signing of Peguero Jean Philippe will be officially announced either late Thursday or Friday CLS has learned, with the Haitian international traveling to New York with his new teammates for this weekend’s game against the Red Bulls.

A physical performed on Monday had raised some concerns about the state of Jean Philippe’s surgically repaired right knee, but the former Red Bulls’ forward has since put those fears to rest.

“We’re going to keep him,” said Yallop of Jean Philippe following Thursday’s practice. “He’s done well in training and [the concern] was more the knee. We know about the player. He wants to get his career back on track from the long-term injury. I think he’ll work out well for us.”

Yallop also confirmed that Jean Philippe would begin Sunday’s match on the bench, although whether he’ll see any playing time is an open question at this point.

As for Jean Philippe, he’s just eager to get back on the field following a lengthy, 20-month rehab.

“I’m feeling much better now with my movement,” said Jean Philippe. “Everything is feeling good. I’m just ready to go and start playing some games soon.”