Frederic Brillant had an inconsistent tenure with NYCFC. (Photo courtesy of NYCFC)

NEW YORK – New York City FC sent defender Frederic Brillant packing Sunday, dealing the French center back to D.C. United for $75,000 in General Allocation Money and a 2018 international roster spot.

Brillant had an inconsistent tenure during his two years with City. He struggled mightly at times in 2016 before losing his starting spot to Alexander Callens this past season. After Maxime Chanot was sidelined with a season-ending injury, the Frenchman was called in to team with Callens in the middle.

He performed well during the playoff stretch run, but NYCFC apparently felt there was someone better out there to take his place on the squad.

Obviously, United saw something in Brillant’s game that can help its backline.

“One of our top priorities this off-season was acquiring an experienced central defender and we are very pleased to complete this transfer,” United general manager Dave Kasper said in a statement. “Frederic is a smart, athletic defender who is a very good passer. His size, speed and presence will strengthen our backline next season and we are excited to welcome him to D.C.”

The 32-year-old Brillant joined NYCFC from K.V. Oostende in January 2016 and played in 58 games, scoring twice.

“Everyone at NYCFC would like to thank Frederic for his service and wish him well at D.C.,” NYCFC said in a press release.

Front Row Soccer editor Michael Lewis has covered 13 World Cups (eight men, five women), seven Olympics and 25 MLS Cups. He has written about New York City FC, New York Cosmos, the New York Red Bulls and both U.S. national teams for Newsday and has penned a soccer history column for the Guardian.com. Lewis, who has been honored by the Press Club of Long Island and National Soccer Coaches Association of America, is the former editor of BigAppleSoccer.com. He has written seven books about the beautiful game and has published ALIVE AND KICKING The incredible but true story of the Rochester Lancers. It is available at Amazon.com.