[MLS] One of the better defensive units in MLS this season has been altered with the trade of left back Jordan Harvey from Philadelphia to Vancouver.

In exchange for Harvey, 27, the Union received an unspecified amount of allocation money. Harvey was acquired in the Expansion Draft and made 46 appearances (one goal, two assists) for Philadelphia in 2010 and 2011. If he takes over at left back for the Whitecaps that will push Alain Rochat, who has played on the outside as well as centrally this season, to centerback.

“Jordan Harvey is an MLS experienced [player] with strong tackling ability, quickness, and a capacity to push forward into the attack,” said Whitecaps FC head coach Tom Soehn in a press release announcing the trade. “We look forward to having him join our backline.”

A five-year veteran of MLS, Harvey started his career in 2006 with Colorado, which took him as the ninth overall pick in the Supplemental Draft. He played 45 games (42 starts) and registered four assists for the Rapids, which left him exposed in an Expansion Draft held after the 2009 season. He led the Union in minutes played (2,613) last year and had made 16 starts this season.

Before he turned pro, Harvey (5-foot-11, 170 pounds) played for the U.S. under-20 team and helped UCLA win the 2002 NCAA Division I men’s title. He is expected to be eligible to face his original MLS team Saturday when the Whitecaps play at Colorado.