[MLS] Struggling Colorado has signed defender Cory Gibbs, 28, a Florida product who started his pro career at age 21 in Germany, where he played for FC St. Pauli in the first, second and third divisions. Gibbs played one season in MLS, for FC Dallas in 2004, before returning to Europe, but has spent two years battling injury.

Gibbs, who has 19 U.S. caps, was signed by Charlton Athletic of the EPL in 2006 but saw no action because of a knee injury.

He was last active in 2005-06 season, when he saw limited time for Dutch club ADO Haag. In the 2004-05 season he played 15 games for Feyenoord of the Dutch Eredivisie.

"Any time you can add a defender with experience at a high level it is a positive," Rapids coach Fernando Clavijo said. "Cory is a solid player and can play both centrally and wide on the backline and will add leadership to the team."

Colorado, No. 2 on the allocation list, was able to acquire Gibbs after Los Angeles passed.

Gibbs passed his physical examination and could play on Saturday against Kansas City Wizards.