Kevin Zimmermann has agreed to a one-year deal with the CSL team

Morris Dalla Costa -
The London Free Press -

London City needed someone who could stick the ball in the back of the net.

It got someone who has shown he can do just that.

London City signed former Forest City London striker Kevin Zimmerman to a one-year deal.

Zimmerman is originally from Mexico and played university soccer in the United States. He came to London last year to play in FC London's first season in the United Soccer League's PDL division.

The tall striker made a name for himself by scoring on a regular basis, especially early in the year.

A groin injury slowed him down later in the season.

Zimmerman could have returned to play with the PDL team, but having graduated, he opted to try something different.

"It has been a tough decision. I am about to graduate from college, so there won't be any more college seasons," Zimmerman said. "I really have been looking to make the jump to the professional side of soccer and I have been in contact with Ryan Gauss (City general manager) some weeks ago about the possibility of me coming to London."

London City has had a history of high-scoring strikers, such as current coach Andrew Loague and Paul Munster. But the current team has had trouble scoring the last two years. Zimmerman is a classic target man who is good with his head and is tough to move off the ball.

"He puts balls in the back of the net," Gauss said. "He's also a true professional. In speaking with him and dealing with him, he's one of the most polite people I have ever met.

"He's all about the team. I knew he was a true professional when he said to me, 'I'm not expecting anything. I will come in there and try to make the team and show you what I can do.' "

Zimmerman was also intrigued about City's effort at putting the franchise back on solid footing.

"I have to thank FC London and (president) Ian Campbell for what it did last year and all they did for me," Zimmerman said. "It was a great experience and I believe they will be very successful, but right now I think the PDL process is done for me and that's why I am coming to play at London City, which has a new big project for the upcoming season."

It didn't hurt that Zimmerman fell in love with London last year.

"The community was so friendly to me and we really developed a great relationship while I was playing at FC London," he said. "I expect a great season and to repeat a good impression of myself in the field and out of the field."

Gauss hopes Zimmerman brings everything he had last year.

"It took a month to work things out and we're excited to have him here," Gauss said. "He's a big piece in the puzzle to put this team back into immediate contention in the Canadian Soccer League."