Russell was drafted 22nd overall by the Los Angeles Galaxy in the 2001 MLS SuperDraft but decided to pursue a career in Europe' The 29-year-old played 123 games in Norway and Denmark and twice started for Rosenborg BK in the 2004 UEFA Champions League'

At 6-foot-2, 195-pounds, Russell can play in the midfield or on the back line'

'Russell is exactly the type of player we want,' GM Garth Lagerwey said' 'He is an American player that has enjoyed success over in Europe and improved greatly' He brings speed, strength and smarts to a locker room full of all three"

Russell's wife has a house in Park City, making the move attractive for Russell'

'I have family in the area and I know that RSL has a great atmosphere and great fans,' he said' 'The new stadium has a phenomenal layout' It is top-quality, world-class and it compares very well to European stadia"