January 13, 2012

Vancouver Whitecaps' Camilo (R) chases down the ball next to FC Dallas' George John during the second half of their MLS soccer game in Vancouver, British Columbia April 23, 2011. (REUTERS/Ben Nelms)

FRISCO, TX - FC Dallas defender George John has joined English League Championship side West Ham on a two-month loan deal, the club announced on Friday.

As part of the agreement, West Ham will have the option to make the move permanent at the end of the two-month loan.

"This is an opportunity for George to raise his play to another level," said head coach Schellas Hyndman. "He has the opportunity to spend time with a club rich in tradition, playing in one of the top leagues as they work to earn a promotion back to the Premiership. I have no doubt we will see an even better center back at the end of this period."

John was an ever-present in the lineup for Dallas last season, logging 31 starts and scoring three goals with one assist.