Barnetta joins Union and may play Saturday

The Union introduced their newest player, Swiss international midfielder-forward Tranquillo Barnetta and aren't expected to waste any time incorporating him into the lineup.

Barnetta is expected to play Saturday when the Union (6-12-4) host the New York Red Bulls (8-6-5) in Saturday's Major League Soccer match at PPL Park.

"To his credit, I think is show his character and mentality he wants to be part of it [Saturday]," Head coach Jim Curtin said. "He knows it is a big game for us and wants to help the team and is a team-first guy."

And so the Union will likely monitor his minutes.

The 30-year-old Barnetta is signed through 2016.

The Union are at their maximum for international players and thus must make room for Barnetta.

MLS teams get eight international spots but can trade them. The Union dealt one to Houston recently along with Sheanon Williams.

With midfielder Vincent Nogueira sidelined due to a quadriceps injury, the Union could loan him to their United Soccer League affiliate Harrisburg and create a spot.

Technical director Chris Albright wouldn't say how Barnetta would be eligible, but the above scenario is likely.

Barnetta, on the roster of Switzerland's last three World Cup teams, most recently played for Schalke 04 of the German Bundesliga.

The Union remain in an injury bind. Besides Nogueira, midfielder Andrew Wenger (concussion) is out. Midfielder Michael Lahoud (hip) will be a game-time decision. Defender Richie Marquez (ankle) likely won't start, but could see action.

Barnetta said that the chance of enjoying a new soccer experience was intriguing.

"I was 11 years in the Bundesliga," he said. "I was looking for something totally new and I have found it here."