Uruguay star Fernandez joins Sounders

Uruguay midfielder Alvaro Fernandez, who played in four World Cup matches for the semi-finalists, has joined the Seattle Sounders, the Major League Soccer club announced Thursday.

Fernandez started for Uruguay in their quarter-final victory over Ghana and entered as a substitute in wins against South Africa, South Korea and Mexico as the team finished fourth, their best showing since 1970.

“I’m very excited to be playing in the US because the football has grown a lot in the last few years and keeps getting better,” Fernandez said.

“My goals are always the same whenever I join a team: try to help, on and off the field, and obviously, win championships.

“I believe I can contribute through my experience. I’m a fast, smooth player who can play on either flank. I am strong in the air and I work very hard.”

Fernandez, 24, spent the 2010 season on loan at Chile’s Universidad de Chile from Uruguayan side Nacional and has also played for clubs in Mexico, Portugal and Uruguay.

“Alvaro is a versatile player who can play in a number of midfield positions,” Sounders coach Sigi Schmid said.

“He brings good energy to the game as well as World Cup experience. He can score and also set up others.”