Bridgeview, IL (Sports Network) - The Chicago Fire announced on Wednesday that the club has re-signed German defender Arne Friedrich. Per league and club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Friedrich signed with the Fire as a free agent in March and went on to make 23 appearances for the club, scoring one goal.
A veteran of 82 caps for Germany, Friedrich was selected as the Fire's Defender of the Year after helping the club to a good defensive record this campaign, which saw Chicago yield just 41 goals in 34 games, tied for second best in the Eastern Conference.
"Building continuity at the center back positions is a priority in 2013," said Fire president of soccer operations Javier Leon. "Arne's international experience and leadership are key to our defense. We are happy to have him back next season."
