Houston Dynamo sign former academy defender Sebastien Ibeagha

The Houston Dynamo announced on Tuesday the signing of defender Sebastien Ibeagha to a first-team contract

Ibeagha, 24, joins the Dynamo first team having once played with the club's academy. The Duke University defender opted to kick-start his professional career two years ago in Denmark with AC Horsens, then spent the last two seasons on loan at FC Frederica and Icelandic outfit Fram Reykjavik.

(Courtesy: @HoustonDynamo)

"We are pleased to welcome Sebastien to the Houston Dynamo first team," Dynamo general manager Matt Jordan said. "Our staff had the opportunity to work with him during our postseason training camp in the fall, which provided the opportunity to see his progress after gaining valuable experience in Europe. We look forward to seeing him continue to grow in our environment and contribute to the success of the team."

Ibeagha was born in Nigeria and moved to Houston when he was 16 years old. The young defender says joining the Dynamo has been on his mind ever since that time.

"Since playing with the academy years ago, it was always a goal of mine to play in my hometown as a first-team player," Ibeagha said. "Today, I've finally reached that minor goal but I know it’s only the beginning ... I am beyond excited for the journey ahead and I am more than ready to get to work."