EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) Defender Nelson Akwari joined the New York-New Jersey MetroStars on Monday after signing with Major League Soccer.

Akwari, who has played with the United States' under-23 team in recent years, was selected by the MetroStars in a weighted lottery draft.

"It's late in the MLS season, but I think it was a good opportunity for me to sign now," Akwari said. "Teams know what they need right now and as the games get bigger and more important it's an opportunity for me to step in and play in high-intensity games."

The MetroStars, who lead the Eastern Conference, made room for Akwari on their developmental roster by waiving midfielder Dustin Sheppard.

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