The Next Year Roster Thread, Rebuilding since 2008

[reggie]

I suggest watching Bargos for more than just 1 match.

Once again, we're making judgements based off of a players' most recent performance.

Watch him over a period of time and make that judgement. I'm not saying Bargos is the man of the future, nor am I saying he's shit, because I don't know myself. I'm just saying, don't make that judgement without a larger sampling of performances.

are you guys sure its the same guy we drafted?

[TFCRegina]

are you guys sure its the same guy we drafted?

I thought it was someone else lol!

And I was correct in that belief.

Rafael Burgos is not Efrain Burgos, Jr.

[Serb_Star]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marko_Panteli%C4%87

[Ossington Mental Youth]

i wish, we'd have to pay a transfer fee, so not likely

[TFCRegina]

By the way, Matt Lam has left FC Edmonton. In their friendly competitions last year, he was one of the top performers. Former Ajax youth player and has been in similar systems in the past. Might be a good guy to trial and potentially sign.

[jloome]

Be interested to see if anyone takes a crack on Steven Beattie in the supplemental draft Tuesday.

http://greenscene.me/2011/01/irishman-steven-beattie-on-mls-superdraft-players-list/

[jloome]

Robbie Keane finding it tough to get a job at his wages. DP material? Debate and discuss:

http://greenscene.me/2011/01/keanes-birmingham-move-collapses/

[TFCRegina]

Robbie Keane finding it tough to get a job at his wages. DP material? Debate and discuss:

http://greenscene.me/2011/01/keanes-birmingham-move-collapses/

Not for us he isn't. This team needs to reduce it's Gini Co-efficient, not grow it by more.

[Ossington Mental Youth]

id beg to differ, i cant see why we wouldnt try to get this guy, hes older but still capable and physical enough for the league, id love to have him here

[sully]

Robbie Keane finding it tough to get a job at his wages. DP material? Debate and discuss:

http://greenscene.me/2011/01/keanes-birmingham-move-collapses/

Just signed with Birmingham, didn't he...

[jloome]

Just signed with Birmingham, didn't he...

No, they confirmed yesterday they're withdrawing interest.....read the link.

[Ossington Mental Youth]

yeah hes reported as being a bit pissed as they never made a serious offer, claims it was for publicity

[Ossington Mental Youth]

Be interested to see if anyone takes a crack on Steven Beattie in the supplemental draft Tuesday.

http://greenscene.me/2011/01/irishman-steven-beattie-on-mls-superdraft-players-list/

apparently we did

[J .]

If we could, id take Keane on the club

[ManUtd4ever]

A little fun with the starting lineup based on the current roster?

Plata-------Santos-------DeRo

Labrocca-----JDG-----Peterson

Harden--Cann--Nana--Omphroy

-------------Frei--------------

[TFC14]

A little fun with the starting lineup based on the current roster?

Plata-------Santos-------DeRo

Labrocca-----JDG-----Peterson

Harden--Cann--Nana--Omphroy

-------------Frei--------------
Kinda scary when you lay all the names down on paper, nice spine but oh boy the flanks are pretty weak.

[ArmenJBX]

Omphroy on the right, Gargan on the left, for now.

[TFCRegina]

Omphroy on the right, Gargan on the left, for now.

Prefer Sturgis at the leftback position. Gargan on the bench for utility work.

[ManUtd4ever]

Oh yeah, I forgot about Sturgis. As strange as it sounds, I actually think that starting lineup is stronger than the starting lineup in last season's opener in New England...

[Nuvinho]

Still not a playoff lineup. I'll wait til we get about 4 to 5 more starters, then start doing lineups.

[ManUtd4ever]

If TFC had beaten Arabe Unido in Panama this would have been the real deal!

[ensco]

Full list of Bosman players here:
http://www.goal.com/en/news/11/transfer-zone/2011/01/19/2312686/2010-11-end-of-season-bosman-list-all-the-players-available

[jloome]

Full list of Bosman players here:
http://www.goal.com/en/news/11/transfer-zone/2011/01/19/2312686/2010-11-end-of-season-bosman-list-all-the-players-available

Like inspirational crack to footie info junkies.

[rocker]

Ajax has quite a number listed.. I wonder if Winter and De Klerk will bring in one of them.

[Whoop]

Only thing is a number of those guys, like Emanuelson, are on the upswing of their careers.

Ooijer is too old and I'm not a fan of Oleguer.

Looking at the Eredivisie list, Tomasson would be intriguing but he'll likely latch on with a smaller Dutch club. The other two that caught my eye were Kromkamp and Landzaat but like Tomasson they'll latch onto some smaller clubs.

[dantdot]

http://www.brotherlygame.com/2011/1/20/1947073/nordbayern-de-reports-that-marek-mintal-will-not-join-the

Looks like Mintal is staying in Germany for now.

[Ossington Mental Youth]

unfortunate, good find tho

[jloome]

Lots of worthy names on the bosman list, but most well out of our price range

Following guys might all be worth a DP contract (even one of slightly lesser value in a few cases.)

Erlend Hanstveit
Defende - 31 Gent****

Mikael Antonsson
Defender Copenhagen****

Guyon Fernandez
18 Apr 1986 Attacker****

Lasse Schone
27 May 1986 Midfielder****

John Carew 5 Sep 1979 Striker****

James McFadden 14 Apr 1983 Midfielder****

Sebastian Larsson 6 Jun 1985 Midfielder****

Stuart Parnaby 19 Jul 1982 Defender****

Francesco Pisano**** 29 Apr 1986 Defender

Zoltan Gera 22 Apr 1979 Midfielder****

Jason Roberts 25 Jan 1978 Striker***

[ensco]

^Carew caught my eye. Maybe he has fond memories of TO (he played once at BMO and was part of an entertaining game here)....?

[jloome]

I don't think he'd come, but he's nearing the age where he might want the adventure. Ditto with Jason Roberts, although he's even less likely due to the charities and other things he's involved with in England (although I said that about Robbie Fowler, too.)

Pisano is unrealistic as his upside is still substantial, as are Fernandez and Schone. Rest are all old enough it might be worth pursuing.

Given our needs, the guys I'd really like off this list are Hansveit, Gera, McFadden, Larsson. Don't think any of them would come for less than mid-range DP money.

[Ossington Mental Youth]

problem is too that several of those dudes are still subject to deals within the EPL and leagues of that standard, itd take alot to convince them to come here and i dont blame em as they still have gas left in the tank

[jloome]

problem is too that several of those dudes are still subject to deals within the EPL and leagues of that standard, itd take alot to convince them to come here and i dont blame em as they still have gas left in the tank

Oh yeah, that's why I'm saying it would have to be as a DP. No way you get Larsson, McFadden or Gera over here without giving them 20,000-plus per week.

There are a few players around who aren't on bosmans but are worth pursuing because of our needs and their potential availability on a free. Youseff El Ackchaoui is languishing in the eredivisie two years after being NEC's player of the year, and can play both left back and left wing. Guys like that.

[Yohan]

i'd like to see Eric Lichaj in MLS. American, come through Villa system. I think it was him putting the lid on Gareth Bale few weeks ago. Not sure how highly Houllier thinks of him.

And just how much did McBride and Dempsey speak of MLS in glowering terms in Fulham? ;)

[gcolacci]

Hey Guys,

Is there any spot where it lists all the "Official" players TFC FO is actually looking at or even potentially signed?

Let me know -

[[NBF]]

gcollacci:

Hey Guys,

Is there any spot where it lists all the "Official" players TFC FO is actually looking at or even potentially signed?

Let me know -

:fluffy: I thought I seen a list with "A+" on the cover page, but than a caucasian redhaired joker ran off down a rabbit hole with the list. :smilielol5::dupe:

Welcome to the TFC forum :stogey:

[jloome]

i'd like to see Eric Lichaj in MLS. American, come through Villa system. I think it was him putting the lid on Gareth Bale few weeks ago. Not sure how highly Houllier thinks of him.

And just how much did McBride and Dempsey speak of MLS in glowering terms in Fulham? ;)

Don't think we could get him. Houllier's mental; right before Christmas he thought Lichaj was the Bomb and he totally shut Bale down. HE had one howler game -- along with the whole team -- and was in the shit book.

Still he's quality and won't be coming to MLS anytime soon.

[Pendrith]

Aston Morgan will be in the mix for the starting Left back. Definitely not Gargan.

[levyashin]

After review of bosman transfer list 5 names to ponder;Klose;Nunes;Schevchenco;Inzaghi; Crespo.all would be good not quite over the hill additions.

[Yohan]

lol. isn't Crespo like 35? Inzaghi like 38? Sheva like 34?

[Fushida]

After review of bosman transfer list 5 names to ponder;Klose;Nunes;Schevchenco;Inzaghi; Crespo. all would be good not quite over the hill additions.

wat

:jaw:

[ManUtd4ever]

Aston Morgan will be in the mix for the starting Left back. Definitely not Gargan.

I only saw a glimpse of this kid in the last meaningless game of the NCC against Vancouver last season but I was definitely impressed with his technical abilities and speed. I agree that he should be considered for the starting role at LB ahead of Gargan.

Despite the unfortunate injury to Lindsay, I'm actually excited by the number of prospects in camp that have a legitimate shot at cracking the lineup with the big club. Henry, Morgan, Omphroy, Plata, and Beattie represent what might be a promising youth movement this season...

[TFC14]

I only saw a glimpse of this kid in the last meaningless game of the NCC against Vancouver last season but I was definitely impressed with his technical abilities and speed. I agree that he should be considered for the starting role at LB ahead of Gargan.

Despite the unfortunate injury to Lindsay, I'm actually excited by the number of prospects in camp that have a legitimate shot at cracking the lineup with the big club. Henry, Morgan, Omphroy, Plata, and Beattie represent what might be a promising youth movement this season...
The best thing possible for soccer development in Canada and the US would be invested interest in the academy...Toronto and other teams seem to be putting more time+money into their programs to develop players from youth. I personally would love to see Lindsay/Henry/Morgan/Matheson over Usanov/Hescanovic type of last resort players to fill holes like last year.

[TFC14]

^ Also to the above....its nice to see some passion, excitement energy and appreciation for where they're playing from these young guys when there on the field...something that a few players who were/are on the team never or rarely display.

[TFCRegina]

By the way, that Ethan Gage guy, Whitecaps prospect who they didn't sign to their MLS squad?

Trialing with Reading and has supposedly been offered a contract for the remainder of the season with the Championship Club.

Should have pursued the man.

[Yohan]

interesting to see who some of the other MLS teams have trialing so far... apparently KC has an ex La Liga defender on trial

[Whoop]

Who?

Who else is trialing out there?

[oxygenatedbrain]

Ethan Gage
Should have pursued the man.

He's still theirs to sign in MLS...he's done his time in their academy (Res) and wants to try Europe.

[TFCRegina]

He's still theirs to sign in MLS...he's done his time in their academy (Res) and wants to try Europe.

Actually, he's not theirs to sign in MLS. While he graduated their academy, he graduated before the jump to MLS.

He's a former NASL player out of contract.

TFC should have given him a look when Vancouver didn't pick him up.

[oxygenatedbrain]

So, what odds would you give that their academy boys' status is grandfathered?

[TFCRegina]

So, what odds would you give that their academy boys' status is grandfathered?

And so what odds would you give that it doesn't matter if it's grandfathered or not, because Gage has been playing professionally for a year already. If Vancouver chooses not to sign him from FREE AGENCY that's their own business. The NASL rights to a contract do not transfer over to MLS.

[oxygenatedbrain]

Ah. Thanks.

[Yohan]

Kansas City apparently has these two on trial
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adda_Djeziri

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Calum_Butcher

this guy is not confirmed, but rumoured
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/J%C3%BAlio_C%C3%A9sar_Santos_Correa

[Petor]

http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20110125/sport/spartans-weigh-up-fenech-bids

A few weeks ago, speculation was rife that Valletta had set their sights on Camilo, who scored 24 league goals for Qormi last season. The latter were also said to be interested in re-signing Camilo, who recently ended his contract with South Korean club Gyeongnam FC, but the Brazilian is set to continue his career in the US after agreeing a move to MLS Canadian-based outfit Toronto FC.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Camilo_da_Silva_Sanvezzo
I think this is him ^^^

[menefreghista]

Wow, the league in Malta is one of the lowest ranked in Europe.

[Oldtimer]

According to the Score's Footy Show podcast, TFC has a lot of Euro players coming to Turkey, a lot of them Dutch apparently.

[Lucky Strike]

According to the Score's Footy Show podcast, TFC has a lot of Euro players coming to Turkey, a lot of them Dutch apparently.

If you don't mind, can you summarize what they said?

[ManUtd4ever]

If you don't mind, can you summarize what they said?

This video was posted in yesterday's news section. Paul Mariner indicates that trialists will be coming in from literally all over the world in the coming weeks...


http://www.sportsnet.ca/soccer/2011/01/22/mariner_video/

[mastermixer]

This video was posted in yesterday's news section. Paul Mariner indicates that trialists will be coming in from literally all over the world in the coming weeks...


http://www.sportsnet.ca/soccer/2011/01/22/mariner_video/


I'm salavating right now lol. Seriously I don't care if we win anything in the next couple of years I just want to watch some decent football for a change. Can't wait till March 19.

[TFC14]

Camilo da Silva Sanvezzo a Brazilian striker is rumored to have agreed a deal with TFC


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Camilo_da_Silva_Sanvezzo

[Oldtimer]

If you don't mind, can you summarize what they said?



This video was posted in yesterday's news section. Paul Mariner indicates that trialists will be coming in from literally all over the world in the coming weeks...


http://www.sportsnet.ca/soccer/2011/01/22/mariner_video/

They said the same as what Mariner said, except adding that there were quite a few Dutch players.

[KRO]

Camilo link including video.
http://bit.ly/h2uHR3

[lazlo_80]

Just saw this tweeted by Sportsnet soccer:

"Looking forward to chatting with #TFC (http://twitter.com/#%21/search?q=%23TFC) players and coaches tomorrow. Wonder why Eddie Sidra is in town. Any connection?"

[Ossington Mental Youth]

awesome, someone else mentioned he was in town for the unveiling of the jersey last night

[TFCRegina]

Just saw this tweeted by Sportsnet soccer:

"Looking forward to chatting with #TFC (http://twitter.com/#%21/search?q=%23TFC) players and coaches tomorrow. Wonder why Eddie Sidra is in town. Any connection?"

You guys will note Sidra was on my list of potential TFC pickups. Along with Ethan Gage who is now in England, and about to sign with Reading. :P

[ag futbol]

Maybe this deserves it's own thread but:


Winter also says “we’re going to try” to bring in a second designated player before the beginning of the season in mid-March.


http://www.thestar.com/sports/soccer/mls/torontofc/article/927998--kelly-sitting-down-with-aron-winter

[jloome]

"Daarnaast ben ik bereid met veel minder genoegen te nemen." PSV zat ook achter haar voormalig pupil aan, maar hij was te duur was voor de armlastige Eindhovenaren. Eerder werd hij ook aangeboden aan Aron Winter, de nieuwe trainer van het Canadese Toronto FC.

Translation
"I am also willing to settle for much less." PSV was also behind her former pupil, but he was too expensive for the impoverished Eindhoven. Earlier, he offered to Aron Winter, the new coach of the Toronto FC.

http://www.voetbalzone.nl/nieuws_van_de_dag.asp?datum=25-01-2011

[Brooker]

Well, we signed him in September and he still isn't fit.... buyer beware.

[jloome]

We signed Gudjonsen? Brooker, I'm confused.

[ArmenJBX]

Perhaps he is a Stoke fan?

[jloome]

Ah, Gotcha.

[ag futbol]

But, but .. the good news is Mista has almost completely regained his fitness :P

[Ossington Mental Youth]

Any chance someone wants to point out the whole article? Hard to find in there and that snippet doesn't give enough

[Brooker]

it looks like it's more about him going to Ajax... maybe I'm interpreting it wrong but it's as if he talked to Winter when he was still at Ajax but they're saying he's now at TFC.


Eidur Gudjohnsen wants nothing more than continue his career at Ajax. "I think I can be of value, " said the striker Stoke City in The Guardian. "I'm 32, but always been very careful with my body. I feel top fit and hope the club with my experience and skills to help."

"That Barcelona in the same system I've played soccer and speak fluent Dutch, is a benefit, " emphasizes the Icelander, who early in his professional career for PSV came out. He is on the sidelines at The Potters hit. "I was able to sign large contracts in America and Dubai, but my preference goes out to Amsterdam. For me, not about the money."

"The physical challenge is paramount, because my career would give a new impetus." Last week Ajax coach Frank de Boer is still positive about a possible emergence of Gudjohnsen. "Because my contract at the end of the season ends, I can already away for free at Stoke City. And I even think that Ajax should have done it a part of Stoke that pays my salary. "

"I am also willing to settle for much less." PSV was also behind her former pupil, but he was too expensive for the impoverished Eindhoven. Earlier, he offered to Aron Winter, the new coach of the Toronto FC.

[Ossington Mental Youth]

yep looks like youre right, they are just mentioning that winters the coach of tfc now

[ag futbol]

I think this urge to combine all the TFC news into one or two threads is getting somewhat ridiculous. It’s supressing conversation about our own team!

Would it be that bad if we looked down the forum list and the topic included Bas Ent, Eddie Sidra, etc…? Isn’t that what everybody WANTS to talk about? Sounds a lot better than the list of topics I currently see below this thread.

Robbie Savage can have his own thread about going to Vancouver but if we want to talk about Eidur Gudjohnsen to TFC we have dig through some generic thread with a mis-mash of topics? Is not extremely retarded?

[dantdot]

I think this urge to combine all the TFC news into one or two threads is getting somewhat ridiculous. It’s supressing conversation about our own team!

Would it be that bad if we looked down the forum list and the topic included Bas Ent, Eddie Sidra, etc…? Isn’t that what everybody WANTS to talk about? Sounds a lot better than the list of topics I currently see below this thread.

Visited a Celtic board, they did it the best imo. A transfer forum section with individual threads for each player.

[Nuvinho]

No Ornoch for TFC. Winter was not in favour of the player, but the interim staff was

[shwade]

No Ornoch for TFC. Winter was not in favour of the player, but the interim staff was

Good, he's standing over them.

[Yohan]

No Ornoch for TFC. Winter was not in favour of the player, but the interim staff was
looks like a little bit of drama in this case

http://www.canadiansoccernews.com/content.php?1055-Reds-say-no-to-Andrew-Ornoch

[Lucky Strike]

looks like a little bit of drama in this case

http://www.canadiansoccernews.com/content.php?1055-Reds-say-no-to-Andrew-Ornoch

Unfortunate that it happened but you can't say Winter did anything wrong. If the interim staff advised Ornoch to buy himself out of the contract as there was an implied offer and then a new guy takes over and puts the kaibash on everything, he shouldn't be scolded for not keeping promises of the old management. Happens in business all the time, really.

It sucks for Ornoch but what are you going to do?

[ManUtd4ever]

Unfortunate that it happened but you can't say Winter did anything wrong. If the interim staff advised Ornoch to buy himself out of the contract as there was an implied offer and then a new guy takes over and puts the kaibash on everything, he shouldn't be scolded for not keeping promises of the old management. Happens in business all the time, really.

It sucks for Ornoch but what are you going to do?

Agreed. Earl Cochrane should not have advised Ornoch knowing full well that he might not be around in the GM capacity to see it through. I feel bad for the kid...

[Ossington Mental Youth]

http://blogs.soccernet.com/onthemove/




08.58 Eidur Gudjohnsen has stepped out of his role as pundit in the Keys-Gray suspension game to concentrate on your actual football. He's not keen on life in Stoke, supposedly and is considering his options. "I'm able to sign large contracts in America and Dubai, but my preference is to go to (Ajax) Amsterdam," Gudjohnsen told the Daily Star. "It is not about money. The sporting challenge is paramount because my career would gain a new impetus."

prob the same quote from yesterday but with a better translation

[Sullivan]

No Ornoch for TFC. Winter was not in favour of the player, but the interim staff was

Mo's legacy, cerberus.

[neuf]

I think this urge to combine all the TFC news into one or two threads is getting somewhat ridiculous. It’s supressing conversation about our own team!

Would it be that bad if we looked down the forum list and the topic included Bas Ent, Eddie Sidra, etc…? Isn’t that what everybody WANTS to talk about? Sounds a lot better than the list of topics I currently see below this thread.

Robbie Savage can have his own thread about going to Vancouver but if we want to talk about Eidur Gudjohnsen to TFC we have dig through some generic thread with a mis-mash of topics? Is not extremely retarded?

I wholeheartedly agree. I used to pop in here a couple of times a day to quickly check out what was going on. When there were more threads, it made it much easier to pinpoint new information. I don't have time to slog through these massive threads.

[lazlo_80]

Two tweets from Winter:

AronWinter (http://twitter.com/#%21/AronWinter) Winter



Ornoch is an interesting player and I gladly would have given him an opportunity - but he simply does not fit into the new style of play

AronWinter (http://twitter.com/#%21/AronWinter) Winter



Turkey will be an exciting opportunity for a lot of players. We now have 8 trialists scheduled to come in... and counting.

[menefreghista]

That twitter account is a fake.

[lazlo_80]

Really? Bummer.

[Juanito]

Although he's a dirty Chilean (just kidding Mario ;)), this guy is quality. If you don't know him, he is property of Monterey in Mexico and is on loan with Real Zaragoza in Spain. He's big and strong, he reminds me of Hulk from Porto and I think that if we were to offer enough money, we can get Monterey to sell him to us for a DP. Since he's strong, and muscular, he is an ideal forward for MLS.

Why would he come here you ask? I think that there is a large enough Chilean community that would make him feel at home here. I would sign him up IN A SECOND. Any thoughts?

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Gh-iaK1qU0k/TP1YlCavf5I/AAAAAAAAANM/lX_FYOfsLMw/s1600/humberto_suazo1.jpg

[ensco]

^Doesn't sound like Chileans are particularly concentrated in TO, unlike immigrants from other places

http://www.mhso.ca/ggp/Exhibits/Safe_Haven/enriquez/chilean_3.html

Looks to me like San Jose or one of the LA teams makes the most sense, based on Chilean community size

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chilean_American#Chilean_American_population_centr es

[billyfly]

Juan's DP Dream. Don't google that at work. Trust me.

[Juanito]

Juan's DP Dream. Don't google that at work. Trust me.

HA HA HA!

[Juanito]

^Doesn't sound like Chileans are particularly concentrated in TO, unlike immigrants from other places

http://www.mhso.ca/ggp/Exhibits/Safe_Haven/enriquez/chilean_3.html

Looks to me like San Jose or one of the LA teams makes the most sense, based on Chilean community size

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chilean_American#Chilean_American_population_centr es

Do you remember the U-20s?! They (the Chileans) came out of the wood-work to support their lads. I have a good friend who's Chilean and their daughter made it in the Chilean news (I will get that article). Toronto is now in the psyche, both good and bad, in Chile. Good because we have shown to have supported "La Roja Chilena" but bad because we gave them a police beat-down.

[TFCRegina]

My DP dream for TFC...

Two Words.

Andrea Lombardo.

[Juanito]

My DP dream for TFC...

Two Words.

Andrea Lombardo.

Suazo or Lombardo? Tough choice.

[BeerBaron95]

^Doesn't sound like Chileans are particularly concentrated in TO, unlike immigrants from other places

http://www.mhso.ca/ggp/Exhibits/Safe_Haven/enriquez/chilean_3.html

Looks to me like San Jose or one of the LA teams makes the most sense, based on Chilean community size

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chilean_American#Chilean_American_population_centr es

Dude... the Chilean community in this city is huge.. dont underestimate that ;)

[billyfly]

I'm visiting a Chilean in Peterborough this weekend. Does he count?

[BeerBaron95]

Juan your my boy and I would back ya 99.9% of the time on anything.. this time however you hit the pipe a lil too hard lol.

He wont come here.. transfer fee alone would be too much that MLSE would pass.. and you would have to pay him minimum 5mil per season.. which is not going to happen.

He is a proven goal scorer no doubt and would fit well into the total football system but its a dream and nothing else. Hes still young and can get offers from other european teams.

If MLSE were to lure him here i would eat crow and buy a jersey asap! lol

Just cant see this happeneing

[ensco]

I was at that game and remember all the Chileans there. But that's not data. The blog I put up isn't data either.

But if I had to guess, I'd guess that there are a lot more Chileans in California or the NYC area than in the GTA.

We're never going to win the game of being a city that major South American players choose to play for reasons other than money.

We certainly could get young players though, like Dallas and LA do on loan, especially from Brazil (given size and proximity of Little Portugal) to BMO.

[Juanito]

Juan your my boy and I would back ya 99.9% of the time on anything.. this time however you hit the pipe a lil too hard lol.

He wont come here.. transfer fee alone would be too much that MLSE would pass.. and you would have to pay him minimum 5mil per season.. which is not going to happen.

He is a proven goal scorer no doubt and would fit well into the total football system but its a dream and nothing else. Hes still young and can get offers from other european teams.

If MLSE were to lure him here i would eat crow and buy a jersey asap! lol

Just cant see this happeneing

HA HA HA HA!

Think big chief! I think it can be done. From the interviews I have read, he isn't all that keen of playing in Europe. He wants some "dolares" in his pocket is all. SUAZO for TFC!!

[TFCRegina]

Should be interesting to see who makes the squad out of the Turkey Trialists.

[Whoop]

That's what I'm waiting for.

See who survived.

[ManUtd4ever]

^^ My guess is Martina and Zavarise...

[Super Cereal]

I could see maybe Soolsma and Gyan too.

[ManUtd4ever]

The other factor to keep in mind this season is that there are an unprecedented number of kids from the Academy, SuperDraft, and Supplemental Draft that have a realistic chance at earning a spot on the 30 man roster. Winter does not need to rely solely on trialists to fill out 15 spots on the roster, he only needs to sign a handful of quality trialists that are capable of making an impact with the first team.

[TFCRegina]

^^ My guess is Martina and Zavarise...

Agreed. Actually though, out of the Canuck trialists I put to paper, Zavarise was the one I expected to do the least well, so I'm glad he's been playing decent.

[jloome]

Agreed. Actually though, out of the Canuck trialists I put to paper, Zavarise was the one I expected to do the least well, so I'm glad he's been playing decent.

Really? Why? He's been playing in the greek super league; that's a heck of a lot higher calibre than most of the Canucks available. In fact, I'd say it's similar to MLS most of the time.

[TFCRegina]

Really? Why? He's been playing in the greek super league; that's a heck of a lot higher calibre than most of the Canucks available. In fact, I'd say it's similar to MLS most of the time.

Well, he was sitting on the bench in the Super League. That's why.

He made 0 appearances.

[jloome]

Well, he was sitting on the bench in the Super League. That's why.

He made 0 appearances.

Did he even make the bench? To me, no stats usually indicates not even getting a shot, given that he had 30-odd appearances prior to that in the german regional league.

But he's looked good throughout training camp and had to have the talent ot get signed by Iraklis in the first place; you can't base a player's potential on his last season alone.

[TFCDP]

Side note: I for some reason miss the days when you could go on mlsrumors and see a rumour about a certain player coming here every week.. I realize 9.5 times out of 10 it would amount to nothing but it was still fun to read.. Haven't seen a TFC rumour in many, many moons.. I guess cause we no longer have mojo blowing smoke.

Sorry, I don't know why I'm so rumour hungry.

[lazlo_80]

it's funny how much the rumours dissapeared when Mo did. Now that site basically just confirms things we already know.

[Smokecell]

http://www.mlssoccer.com/news/article/four-mls-clubs-participate-korey-veeder-lottery

TFC favorites to land Korey Veeder, supposedly a RB

The lottery was at 230 so I don't seewhy we haven't heard anything yet but none the less...

[ArmenJBX]

We won him and we're now dealing him to Columbus for a player
That or MLS is just taking their sweet time :)

[Ossington Mental Youth]

aaaaaand of course TFC doesnt win a weighted lottery

[dantdot]

Crew got him. The fix is in!

[rocker]

I don't care about the kid... but losing to Columbus again... sucks.

[drewski]

luv seein TFC sign all these Dutch players. Gives me excuse to wear the fuzzy Dutch soccer hat the inlaws brought back from Holland last year

[Blowing Bubbles]

where are the cheap South Americans?

[Derko]

where are the cheap South Americans?

Everywhere but here, I suppose, maybe cheap South Americans is just a figment of the imagination

[[NBF]]

I think we have some depth now, considering the 4 academy signings. My question is do the midfielders Cordon and Stinson, do they play on the left or right wing or mainly in the middle?

[TFC07]

where are the cheap South Americans?

Hard for a Canadian soccer team to sign cheap talented South Americans. South American players usually prefer to play for American MLS teams over us due to large Hispanic population in USA.

[nfitz]

Interesting.

Though that does leave many other countries where Toronto has an advantage.

[Troll]

Ya... Toronto doesn't have a large hispanic community.


:poke:

[TFC07]

Ya... Toronto doesn't have a large hispanic community.


:poke:

Not compare to American cities.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Demographics_of_Toronto

[Doucet3]

TFC Roster
2 DF Demitrius Omphroy
3 DF Nana Attakora
4 DF Doneil Henry
5 DF Ashtone Morgan
6 MF Julian de Guzman
7 FW João Plata
8 DF Dan Gargan
10 MF Alen Stevanović*
11 MF Nathan Sturgis
12 DF Adrian Cann
13 FW Keith Makubuya
15 MF Matt Stinson
16 MF Oscar Cordon
17 MF Elbekay Bouchiba
18 MF Nick Soolsma
19 DF Mikael Yourassowsky
20 DF Ty Harden
21 FW Alan Gordon
22 MF Tony Tchani
23 MF Jacob Peterson
24 GK Stefan Frei*
25 DF Danleigh Borman
26 MF Matt Gold
28 MF Gianluca Zavarise
29 FW Maicon Santos*
30 GK Miloš Kočić
31 DF Dicoy Williams
33 FW Javier Martina
37 FW Nicholas Lindsay

My Depth Chart
4-3-3
GK - Frei - Kocic
D - Gargan - Yourassowsky
D - Attakora - Williams - Henry
D - Cann - Harden - Morgan
D - Borman - Omphroy - Harden*
M - De Guzman - Gold - Stinson*
M - Tchani - Zavarise - Bouchiba - Cordon
M - Stevanovic - Sturgis - Peterson*
F - Martina - Soolsma*
F - Santos - Plata - Lindsay
F - Gordan - Makubuya*

2 DF Demitrius Omphroy*
Future - N/A
Have not seen him play to give a rating

3 DF Nana Attakora
Future - Staying
Nana is one of our best defenders hands down still a little raw but will develop nicely

4 DF Doneil Henry
Future - Staying
Reminds me of Attakora, another great Canadian defender still needs work but is on his way

5 DF Ashtone Morgan
Future - to early to tell
Only seen parts of Academy games can't judge till MLS experience is gained
*
6 MF Julian de Guzman
Future - Staying*
Winter thinks he'll fit right in and this game is more his style, hopefully he can excel this year*

7 FW João Plata
Future - to early to tell
Still to early to tell has great energy though

8 DF Dan Gargan
Future - Staying
Solid player, Great at the MLS level, MID or DEF he gets the job done, mistakes do happen but not often*

10 MF Alen Stevanović*
Status - Loaned player
Tricky M, reminds me of Nani from Man United

11 MF Nathan Sturgis
Future - To early to tell*
Seems like a solid player, like Peterson but better?

12 DF Adrian Cann
Future - Rented?
With the contract bull he might be another DeRo situation, and his D play isn't great but it's okay

13 FW Keith Makubuya
Future - to early to tell
N/A

15 MF Matt Stinson
Future - to early to tell
N/A

16 MF Oscar Cordon
Future - to early to tell
N/A

17 MF Elbekay Bouchiba
Future - to early to tell
N/A

18 MF Nick Soolsma
Future - a bit early, depth player?
From the Caps game he seems like Martina but slower and not as skilled

19 DF Mikael Youasdowsky
Future -*a bit early, depth player?
Played pretty good reminded me of Wynne how he was always charging down the wing*

20 DF Ty Harden
Future - Rented?
Seems like he makes dumb decisions at times and his through balls are not great*

21 FW Alan Gordon
Future - Looking like staying
Big physical guy good job so far, like his style hopefully he can keep the goals coming or he's going to drop

22 MF Tony Tchani
Future - Staying, Possible MLS Star to come
Looks good great reviews from Red Bull fans, analysis is he's heading for the MLS AllStar team in the near future

23 MF Jacob Peterson
Future - Rented?
Not sure what to say bout Peterson, he's 50/50 to me*

24 GK Stefan Frei*
Future - Staying 1-3 years then Europe*
Solid great GK, on his way to Europe like he said he wanted, can't blame him

25 DF Danleigh Borman*
Future - to early but looking okay
From the one game he played okay not really gunna pass judgement yet

26 MF Matt Gold
Future - to early to tell
N/A

28 MF Gianluca Zavarise*
Future - Staying*
I like him actually seems like a good M presence, Hopefully he cracks the line up, and shares time with Tchani*

29 FW Maicon Santos*
Future - Staying*
Our deadliest goal threat, I think he has to be a little less selfish (PHI game), looks solid up front though

30 GK Miloš Kočić
Future - Staying
I actually like Kocic aswell he's a solid backup and with Frei on the semi verge of leaving at any time really Kocic is a good 2nd option*

31 DF Dicoy Williams
Future - to early to tell
N/A

33 FW Javier Martina
Future - Staying
Wouldn't be surprised if he gets a contract extension, Nani-esk, great feet and speed, very talented

37 FW Nicholas Lindsay
Future - to early to tell
With the accident this offseason he has to redo everything aka re earn everything*
:scarf::flare::drum::canada:

[Doucet3]

Which players in yours eyes are the key/unmovable/Core players of TFC, obviously no one is untouchable with the recent DeRo trade but there were some factors in that trade that made it possible.

My List

Nana Attakora
Reminds me of a Canadian Patrice Evra, only at CB and obv not as good, i think he should be our captain, hes young (a tip of the hat to our new mentality), hes Canadian; Canada pride EH!, hes solid game in game out, sure he makes mistakes from time to time but hes overall one of the most solid defenders not only on our team but in the MLS, and hes going to stay with Toronto FC for a while longer then Frei thats for sure.

Doneil Henry
You're probably thinking "what the F***", but i think hes the best academy player skill wise (at there position) to come out of the academy, and i think he has the potential to be a starter in the MLS on day, he obviously still needs work but think hes following Attakora's path in the sense on climbing to a starter pos.

Julian De Guzman
Winter said JDG is going to be a key player thats why he makes my list, and with the new system and new coach i truly do think JDG could make an impact and improve from last year, i think he just needs a little bit more time and he'll fit right into the new system.

Tony Tchani
From rave reviews coming from New York fans and reporters hes going to be one of the best Midfielders in the game in 1-3 years, and this makes the DeRo trade look like Winter knows what hes doing, he got rid of a aging (still good mind you) mid who has mabie 2-4 yrs left in him, for a Mid that will be as good as DeRo in that time span not to mention a 1st Dpick, and by the time our team became real contenders i think DeRo would be on his way out, a major step back, but now were building our foundation with youth.

Stefan Frei
Our Rock in the net, a solid MLS goalie and a future in Europe is inevitable unless he chooses to stay with TFC which would make our GK one of the strongest if not already in the MLS. with him and Kocic i think we have one of the best GK roster slot in the league and theres not much else to say you all know he good period

Maicon Santos
Our best goal threat as of right now he safe unless AW brings in another top notch striker, even so i still think Santos will stay hes a good talent and if he can score regularly then he could be one of the best FW in the MLS

Javier Martina
One of the best Wingers TFC has ever had i think, came over from Europe, was a Ajax reserve star, and is making his way with Toronto, so far so good, has great speed up and down the wing and has tricky feet, Nani-esk.

These are just my opinion id love to hear some other TFC fans opinions, and for any immature people who want to just comment to bash what ive said or bitch and say i dont know what im talking about, just leave the elementary bullshit out of this.
:scarf::scarf::scarf::scarf::scarf::scarf:

[ArmenJBX]

I have a feeling Alen Stevanovic will be key to us, however I believe the biggest player for this club will be Javier Martina.

[Pachuco]

I don't think JDG is untouchable, certainly not at his salary. Winter thinks he's going to be a key player because he probably doesn't have much choice. But if you think about what you can get for his salary, and the fact we have Tchani now, it's hard to convince me that DeGuzman should be unmovable.

I also think if you are going to take an Academy kid then Morgan has been more impressive then Henry. Even Lindsey has been more impressive but he's a big unknown at this point with a major injury.

Besides that though I agree with the rest of your assessment.

[prizby]

most teams have 1 or 2 maybe 3 key players...not 6

naming half the starting 11 and calling them key defeats the purpose

for example, ManU probably have two "key" players...Rooney and Vidic

a key player is someone who takes this team to a complete different dimension...as of now, we have one in my mind, that is Stefan Frei

[69Chevy396]

the sleeper on this team might be Gordon. He may be the best target man the team has ever had and may eventually replace Dichio as our favorite all time player.

[Doucet3]

most teams have 1 or 2 maybe 3 key players...not 6

naming half the starting 11 and calling them key defeats the purpose

for example, ManU probably have two "key" players...Rooney and Vidic

a key player is someone who takes this team to a complete different dimension...as of now, we have one in my mind, that is Stefan Frei
if you looked REALLLY close youll see "key/UNMOVABLE/CORE"

and as for UNITED (man{yoU} is offensive to united supporters) you could argue Evra, Nani (most assists in the PL),and MABIE Berbatov but hes streaky... the Phil Kessel of Manchester :P

[ag futbol]

http://www.mlssoccer.com/news/article/four-mls-clubs-participate-korey-veeder-lottery

TFC favorites to land Korey Veeder, supposedly a RB

The lottery was at 230 so I don't seewhy we haven't heard anything yet but none the less...
Looking back at this how ironic we didn't win the weighted lottery and we need a RB. Haven't seen this guy play though ... not sure what he's worth

[prizby]

if you looked REALLLY close youll see "key/UNMOVABLE/CORE"

and as for UNITED (man{yoU} is offensive to united supporters) you could argue Evra, Nani (most assists in the PL),and MABIE Berbatov but hes streaky... the Phil Kessel of Manchester :P

Berbatov can be replaced by Chicarito, Giggs at his age already showed he can replace Evra and Nani wouldn't be leading the league in assists if Valencia hadn't got injured

[Doucet3]

Berbatov can be replaced by Chicarito, Giggs at his age already showed he can replace Evra and Nani wouldn't be leading the league in assists if Valencia hadn't got injured

I Agree with chicharito taking berbas place but he's not a KEY player yet, hahaha giggs replace evra?, that shows you don't know what your talking about when it comes to United, Evra - LB, Giggsy - MID ... Mostly right, and Nani still would have been in the top for assists this year Valencia injured or not, he broke out of his shell this year, I've watched Every single game this year, I know my United.

[TFCRegina]

I Agree with chicharito taking berbas place but he's not a KEY player yet, hahaha giggs replace evra?, that shows you don't know what your talking about when it comes to United, Evra - LB, Giggsy - MID ... Mostly right, and Nani still would have been in the top for assists this year Valencia injured or not, he broke out of his shell this year, I've watched Every single game this year, I know my United.

Is this the Manchester United Thread or the TFC Next Year Roster thread?

[Jenkins12]

Hey guys new fan here, just saying hi. I'm coming out in May for 3 months and have gotten into alot of the Toronto teams and will definately be catching alot of Toronto FC games and Blue Jay games (if possible). Anyway is there a general discussion thread so I can talk to people from Toronto and introduce myself? thanks.

And sorry to keep on this Man Utd talk but, Ryan Giggs could never play LB on a consistent basis, he has played there once or twice and would never have the legs for it now at his age. Chicharito has already surpassed Berbatov for me. Nani and Valencia all season would be deadly, Valencia is the better distrubutor but Nani is much improved this year.

Look forward to speaking to everyone!

[prizby]

I Agree with chicharito taking berbas place but he's not a KEY player yet, hahaha giggs replace evra?, that shows you don't know what your talking about when it comes to United, Evra - LB, Giggsy - MID ... Mostly right, and Nani still would have been in the top for assists this year Valencia injured or not, he broke out of his shell this year, I've watched Every single game this year, I know my United.

for a guy who has watched every game this year...Evra at lb against West Ham = 2 goals...then Giggs moved back there in the second half and did a hell of a job and United didn't concede...you must agree he did a good job at lb considering that isn't his normal position and shows that Evra is in fact replacable

[Jenkins12]

Ir was 2-0 when Evra was left back due to a penalty he conceded which was unforunate, and penalty that occured on the other side of the box..by the time Giggs was left back West Ham were out of gas and United were all over them...That being said Giggs was a class act as always, but will never play there again.

But if you are just arguing a case that Evra is replaceable then you are spot on, his attacking is great, but his defending ecspecially this year has been disasterous, as we speak i'm watching the david luiz goal at SB and he was just caught out AGAIN...Fabio and Rafael are the future wing backs.

[Ossington Mental Youth]

oh my god take the man u talk elsewhere puh leeeeeeez

[[NBF]]

Hey you kids, quit messing with my thread!

[Doucet3]

I'm not going to respond to United talk I'll quit messing with your thread :p, I leave the united talk with this

Evra replaceable? ... Haha that's a laugh the whole team is having a rough season evra is no exception, but to say he's replaceable, preposterous!.

Back to TFC talk!

[Stouffville_RPB]

oh my god take the man u talk elsewhere puh leeeeeeez

Yes this is a :scarf: board. This is not the place to talk international soccer.

[Jenkins12]

I'm not going to respond to United talk I'll quit messing with your thread :p, I leave the united talk with this

Evra replaceable? ... Haha that's a laugh the whole team is having a rough season evra is no exception, but to say he's replaceable, preposterous!.

Back to TFC talk!

Sorry to all of the rest of you, but I'd like you to explain how Evra is not replacable, how can the whole team be having a rough season yet be top, in the quarters of the CL and semi's of the FA Cup, I accept a few players are stuggling.

He has been shocking defensively this season, he almost cost us the game last night, ironically he also had his best input in any game this season too when he made a great clearance off the line..

Anyway, lets debate it in the man utd thread :D

:scarf:

[jloome]

Don't say sorry dude, just don't do it. Fucking rude man.

Does anyone know if Omphroy is coming along? Maybe we can see what the kid looks like at some point, as he was apparently fairly impressive in Turkey.

[ManUtd4ever]

^^ I've been wondering the same thing.

[Pachuco]

Don't say sorry dude, just don't do it. Fucking rude man.

Does anyone know if Omphroy is coming along? Maybe we can see what the kid looks like at some point, as he was apparently fairly impressive in Turkey.

I would expect he'll get some playing time in the reserve league and we'll be able to see for ourselves or atleast here from those that go to the game.

[jloome]

I would expect he'll get some playing time in the reserve league and we'll be able to see for ourselves or atleast here from those that go to the game.

I wonder if they'll stream the reserve games? Lots of interest; they could sell a tagline sponsor to pay for it ."This online presentation is brought to you by Pizza Pizza" etc.

[los sonadores]

I wonder if they'll stream the reserve games? Lots of interest; they could sell a tagline sponsor to pay for it ."This online presentation is brought to you by Pizza Pizza" etc.

I'd love to see the reserve games streamed.

[Whoop]

Wasn't this guy supposed to be coming to TFC at one point? LOL

http://www.goal.com/en/news/585/argentina/2011/04/08/2431384/boca-juniors-martin-palermo-announces-retirement

[sashavukelich]

^^^^^ hahaha the old regime is such a joke. Talk about nonsense from Mo "smoke and mirrors' Johnston

[Doucet3]

id love to see some reserve game... like come on how hard is it really to get a small camera crew to the games and put them on GolTV or something, im sick of all this south American stuff (on Gol) ... not my cup of tea, id rather watch a reserve game then Brazilian highlights

[Ossington Mental Youth]

ill take both. basically ill take any soccer i can get

[prizby]

oh my god take the man u talk elsewhere puh leeeeeeez


;1268745']Hey you kids, quit messing with my thread!


Yes this is a :scarf: board. This is not the place to talk international soccer.

blame it on whoever merged the thread into this one

[Whoop]

What merge?

You guys started talking United stuff here.

[prizby]

the one that was called "Our Key Players"...i was making the comparison to this guy here about how a key player needs to be irreplacable and doniel henry is by far not a "key" player and since his name had ManU, i used ManU as an example...then the thread got merged into here and the discussion continued...we cannot be blamed for someone merging the thread into another; that is out of our control

[Stryker]

Does anyone know when Peterson comes off the books? Assuming we don't resign him at his current salary. (pretty safe bet)

[[NBF]]

I think its too soon to release Jacob Peterson. If you are going by what Winter said that he is waiting for the transfer window to reopen in order to sign players from Europe.

Here's a list of 5 players that can go:

1. Harden
2. Bouchiba
3. Gargan
4. Gordon
5. Sturgis

Players to keep:

---------------------------1. Frei--------------------------------
-----------------------------------------------------------------
2. Eckersley---------3.----------------4.---------5. Yourassowsky
-----------------------------------------------------------------
---------6. DeGuzman----7. Tchani----8. Sturgis------------------
-----------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------9. Stevanovic----------------------------
-----------------------------------------------------------------
---------10. Martina--------------------11. Santos---------------

[denime]

;1311263']I think its too soon to release Jacob Peterson. If you are going by what Winter said that he is waiting for the transfer window to reopen in order to sign players from Europe.

Here's a list of 5 players that can go:

1. Harden
2. Bouchiba
3. Gargan
4. Gordon
5. Sturgis

Players to keep:

---------------------------1. Frei--------------------------------
-----------------------------------------------------------------
2. Eckersley---------3.----------------4.---------5. Yourassowsky
-----------------------------------------------------------------
---------6. DeGuzman----7. Tchani----8. Sturgis------------------
-----------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------9. Stevanovic----------------------------
-----------------------------------------------------------------
---------10. Martina--------------------11. Santos---------------


Boucgiba I can understand,but Gordon?

[MartinUtd]

Yeah apart from Frei and Plata, Gordan has been the best thing going for TFC this season. Hopefully he can find his form quickly after he's healed.

[colman1860]

Yeah apart from Frei and Plata, Gordan has been the best thing going for TFC this season. Hopefully he can find his form quickly after he's healed.

No Santos? He has 3 more goals than Gordon...

[nfitz]

Bouchiba! I'd completely forgotten about him!

[menefreghista]

Bouchiba! I'd completely forgotten about him!

I heard he's a great leader.

[MartinUtd]

No Santos? He has 3 more goals than Gordon...


Don't get me wrong, I apprciate Santos' contribution thus far. He just has a bit of Jeff Cunningham in him. He clearly doesn't give a shit and it shows in his play.

[ManUtd4ever]

Don't get me wrong, I apprciate Santos' contribution thus far. He just has a bit of Jeff Cunningham in him. He clearly doesn't give a shit and it shows in his play.

I disagree. Santos has been one of the most passionate players on our club this season.

[menefreghista]

I am becoming a broken record on this, but I would love to play some sort of formation with both Gordon and Santos employed as strikers.

[ManUtd4ever]

I am becoming a broken record on this, but I would love to play some sort of formation with both Gordon and Santos employed as strikers.

Co-signed.

[T.Reis]

Didn't know where to put this as I think it's not really a "rumor" but Portuguese striker Nuno Gomes has parted ways with Benfica and is supposedly willing to play in either the MLS or middle east if the money is right. We were rumored to be after him back in the day.

Not sure if TFC would still be interested, I believe it was Mo's contact anyway.

Personally, I wouldn't be to crazy about having him come here looking for one last pay day.

[Pachuco]

Yikes, maybe when Mo was after him. But I don't see a benefit in getting him now.

Edit: Actually admittedly I don't watch Portuguese football. My statement above was based on age. But I'm looking at his wiki stats. He has 8 goals in 7 appearances this year. Pretty darn good strike rate. But why the low number of appearances? injury maybe? I don't see how you would keep a guy on the bench that's scoring like that.

[Whoop]

Essentially age.

And the fact that he is legend at the club now that they kept him around.

I wouldn't bring him over as a DP. Though he is a year younger than Angel.

I would hope the team could to do better than Gomes.

[ensco]

^Speaking of ageing Portuguese strikers, it's been a while since we had a good Joao Pinto rumor.

I heard he's in town.

(just kidding)

[J .]

I am becoming a broken record on this, but I would love to play some sort of formation with both Gordon and Santos employed as strikers.


Agreed, with the players we have my starting XI would be:

Eckersley--Williams--Nana--Yourassousky

Stevanovic---Tchani--JDG---Plata

----Santos---Gordon.

Where we need upgrades:

Eckersley---new Cb--Nana- new LB

New Winger--Tchani--new CM--New winger

---New striker--New Striker.

For me Nana is going to be a very good MLS defender and the most complete we have on our backline. If we could clone Eckersley as a LB I would be fine. We definately need two new wingers, Plata will be good, but he needs 2-3 years to season a little bit and someone has to replace JDG. JDG has to go, best for all parties. Finally, we need two new strikers. Santos and Gordon are not prolific scorers, not even ten goals a season type guys. Paired up with someone they would be ok, but not as a tandem.

[CSO_BBTB]

With Harden and Attakora on Saturday it was a bit of an eyeopener seeing who tended to dish the ball off to who so that the other guy would be the one making the initial challenging pass out of defence. Obviously there is a lot more to playing at centre back than that but in Winter's system being comfortable in possession is more important than it was when Mo Johnston and/or Preki were the main factor in determining the composition of the roster.

[spark]

Where we need upgrades:

Eckersley---new Cb--Nana- new LB

New Winger--Tchani--new CM--New winger

---New striker--New Striker.


This might look harsh but 100% spot on. Every player outside of those three are depth/fringe starters IMO. If we're talking about title contending squad and actually building (oh $hit I said it!) those three (and Frei) are the players who will keep getting better over the next couple years.

[ExiledRed]

If anyone hadnt noticed, Santos is currently the best player on the fucking pitch. He's carried us through the NCC and doesnt flaunt chances when they arise.

That they arise so little has more to do with the players 'building from the back' which for us, basically means carrying the ball up the wing, sending it across the midfield and then quickly send it back to Frei, and keep doing this all game, until one of our forwards gets the ball by accident.

[ag futbol]

Yeah i think Eckersley is the only player who can confidently pass the ball out of the back. Williams is ok but not great. I'd add youassowski to the list but he seems to be a mid now with little sign of a defensive role.

We are badly missing a few key pieces including an AM to link play between the forwards and the midfield.

[TFCRegina]

If anyone hadnt noticed, Santos is currently the best player on the fucking pitch. He's carried us through the NCC and doesnt flaunt chances when they arise.

That they arise so little has more to do with the players 'building from the back' which for us, basically means carrying the ball up the wing, sending it across the midfield and then quickly send it back to Frei, and keep doing this all game, until one of our forwards gets the ball by accident.

This FFS. I don't care if Santos stands around for 88 minutes. It's those 3 that he's producing goals that matter.

It's not Santos' fault the ball never gets us the pitch.

[Stouffville_RPB]

Santos has been very good for us whether he's played as an AM or a ST. Once Gordon went down Santos had to move up and since then there really hasn't been anyone able to fill the AM role the same way. We started the season with a triangle in midfield and since Gordon and Peterson's injury we've gone to a flat 3.

We need a good striker or a good AM and Santos CAN play the other.

[moralis]

I found this info on Sky Sports news site saying Mike Grella (TFC 2009 Draft pick) going to train with New York Cosmos.

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11688_6970997,00.html

http://www.majorleaguesocceruk.com/2011/06/leeds-united-striker-training-with-new.html

I think we still have his rights. Do you guys have any info.

We should bring in back because we need some scoring.

[swan]

I am becoming a broken record on this, but I would love to play some sort of formation with both Gordon and Santos employed as strikers.

i like the sounds of that..

and someone that can create things in the mid we need that big time..

[A.J]

How many has Santos scored so far?

5 league + 3 NCC?

[Island Man]

How many has Santos scored so far?

5 league + 3 NCC?

Correct.:scarf:

[Whoop]

Rapid Vienna has released Vennegor of Hesselink. Available on free.

[West220Side]

Rapid Vienna has released Vennegor of Hesselink. Available on free.

I'll forgive he played for Scottish runner-ups year in, year out. Celtic.

Yes, please.

[Yohan]

I'll forgive he played for Scottish runner-ups year in, year out. Celtic.

Yes, please.
either him or Koevermans would fit in TFC nicely. since TFC seems to be able to only play good with a target man striker

[[NBF]]

Our strikers are not the best but considering that we leak goals like we do, I still would rather see TFC pick up an experienced centre back. Just one, we got 29 players on the roster and we have room for 1 more and still havent used up our second dp spot.

Kevin McKenna(Centre Back)- He would be my number one choice, but considering how badly Harden has been beaten by fast strikers or anyone with decent pace and dribbling skills of a high school player. I would prefer someone who is able to recover from a mental mistake and is able to close down strikers.

Victor Bernardez(Centre Back)- Honduran centre back whos contract just ran out with Lierse SK in Belgium. 29 years old and 6'2 for height.

[Yohan]

I still beat the DP CB drum. Why? Because most MLS defenders don't have the technical skills that is required for the style of game TFC plays, plus TFC needs a commanding CB who can organize the defence. For that, you probably have to pay DP money

[ag futbol]

Nothing to say which MLS club this is linked to, but given that this sounds in some ways similar to Stevanovic, I wonder if we'd be on the other end of this?

http://www.mls-rumors.net/17638/2011/07/incoming-italian-striker-andrea-pisanu-to-mls

[Shakes McQueen]

Nothing to say which MLS club this is linked to, but given that this sounds in some ways similar to Stevanovic, I wonder if we'd be on the other end of this?

http://www.mls-rumors.net/17638/2011/07/incoming-italian-striker-andrea-pisanu-to-mls

It'd be funny if we went from having a a pretty pitiful history of strikers, to this guy and Danny Koevermans in a matter of a couple of weeks, haha.

- Scott

[CSO_BBTB]

No obvious mechanism to sign Pisanu given the three DP roster spots are filled, the six discovery signings for 2011 have almost certainly been used and it seems unlikely there is much in the way of allocation money available. Anything that happens now will probably revolve around a trade within the league in which a surplus midfielder and/or forward made superfluous by the arrival of the two new DPs will be traded for a centre back.

[Couchy81]

Nothing to say which MLS club this is linked to, but given that this sounds in some ways similar to Stevanovic, I wonder if we'd be on the other end of this?

http://www.mls-rumors.net/17638/2011/07/incoming-italian-striker-andrea-pisanu-to-mls

Not sure what triggered it but that website got my Avira AntiVir to pop up an html script virus warning from that page.

[rocker]

what about loan deals? Stevanovic was on a loan deal. Maybe they can do one for a decent player for the rest of the year.

[CSO_BBTB]

Easy enough to check the roster rules here:

http://www.mlssoccer.com/2011-mls-roster-rules

Don't see anything about loans as a separate category. Beyond trades I think this is all that's doable now:

(K) SEASON-ENDING INJURY REPLACEMENTS
A team with a player lost to a season-ending injury can replace that player on its roster, while remaining responsible for the full amount of the injured player’s salary. A player can be placed on the season-ending injury list once another player has been signed as a replacement (provided the team has budget space). International player limits still apply at the time a season-ending replacement is made (with the player being replaced not counting against those limits).
(L) SHORT-TERM INJURY REPLACEMENTS
A team with a player who has a short-term injury can replace that player on its roster, while remaining responsible for the full amount of the injured player’s salary. A player can be placed on the short-term injured reserve list once another player has been signed as a replacement (provided the team has budget space). Note that the injured player will have to sit out a minimum of six MLS League matches before he can rejoin the team’s roster. International player limits still apply at the time a short-term replacement is made (with the player being replaced not counting against those limits).

but there may not be enough cap space available after squeezing in the two DPs because the injured player's salary still counts against the cap

[moralis]

As you guys know TFC is in serious need of a centre back because of injuries and Aron Winter said during the Frings-Kovermans press conference that he has to look within MLS for a US or Canadian centre back because he doesn't have any more international roster spots or maybe one he wants to use on another player when July 15 comes.

So I was thinking of a trade scenario:

Toronto receives: Andre Hainault

http://www.houstondynamo.com/player/andre-hainault

Houston receives: Tony Tchani

http://www.torontofc.ca/player/tony-tchani

It works for Houston because they can play either Bobby Boswell or Geoff Cameron at centre back. It frees an international roster spot and they get Tchani whose still a Generation Adidas player at a low price.

It works for Toronto because we desperately need a centre back and Hainault as a Canadian works for us. In addition we have numerous defensive midfielders or midfielders who play the same position as Tchani on the squad. We have Frings and De Guzman (both starters), plus Sturgis, Peterson, Zavarise, Gold, Cordon, Stinson and the injured Elbekay Bouchiba (possibly coming back in September).

I would rather see TFC trade Sturgis plus New York's draft pick that we received in the De Rosario trade, but I doubt Houston would want Sturgis and NY's 1st round pick. I'm sure they would rather have Tchani.

What do you guys think of this trade scenario? If you guys have any other trade scenarios post them here.

[Ossington Mental Youth]

Dunno, im thinking De Guzmans gone so we will need someone in that position, not to mention Tchani has a huge upside, is free and young. Also Hainault isnt so much the leader we need in the back, from what i know hes used to playing second fiddle like alot of our current CBs

[gomesv]

Terrible trade
:facepalm::facepalm::facepalm:

[Stouffville_RPB]

NOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Do we need help at CB....yes but I would not move someone like Tony Tchani to fill a hole that we have right now. Tchani has huge potential and next season with a healthy Cann, a hopefully improved Henry, Nana, Harden and Williams on the roster we wouldn't really have a glaring need for Hainault.

[CSO_BBTB]

The big problem in making this trade is that when other teams know you are desperate they are likely to try to drive a hard bargain. The greater level of contract guarantees under the new CBA may also have led to less flexibility when it comes to generating cap space at short notice.

I suspect in the longer term Cann and Attakora may not be in Winter's plans as they are more the Mo Johnston sort of defender (i.e. more emphasis placed on athleticism than on ability to maintain possession under pressure) and also TFC may not be in their plans if they think they can make better money elsewhere. That makes finding a starter quality experienced centre back in the $100-150k range in quality terms a priority to complete the revamp of the spine of the team.

Unfortunately the need to sign Eckersley on loan to shore things up defensively in the short term may have eliminated the cap space and roster spot required to sort this issue out during the summer window. Given Eckersley is probably using TFC primarily as a way to convince top English clubs that his attitude is right (don't think his ability will ever have been in question) and he deserves another chance, right back is the other position that will also probably have to be sorted out before the start of the 2012 season.

[ecospice]

^^^

Yeah - the Eck will likely find himself in demand in England if he keeps turning in fine performances. Much as I would like to see him be a long term, permanent, fixture on TFC its unlikely we will see him past the end of this season.

I think we have to 'suck it up' with the CB injuries this year and trust Winter to shore up the back line in the offseason.

Any word on when we may see Nana, Dicoy or Harden again?

[JuliquE]

Could be that "future considerations" from LA will play a part in resolving our CB situation.

[Ossington Mental Youth]

Good question, really good question (re: Future considerations)
Honestly as great as Ecks is, i dont see Premier league teams calling yet, even championship teams at that. Hes only had a good half season and on an awful team in a soso league. I definitely dont want to downplay his talent, hes been amazing for the team, prob one of the best, if not the best player and i hope to fuck we sign him. If anything thatll be our biggest worry, not signing him for whatever reason and him having to leave the loan.

[CSO_BBTB]

Here's a reminder of where Eckersley fitted into the scheme of things in England in the not too distant past:

http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2009/jul/15/richard-eckersley-manchester-united-burnley

Burnley (http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/burnley) have signed Manchester United (http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/manchester-united) reserve-team defender, Richard Eckersley.
The 20-year-old turned down a new contract at Old Trafford to agree a four-year deal with the Clarets, who will have to pay United compensation because of the player's age.

[Ossington Mental Youth]

then he went on loan to several lower clubs.
like i said i dont doubt his skill at all, he seems to have fallen between the cracks, i dont expect a meteoric rise from this league either

[menefreghista]

then he went on loan to several lower clubs.
like i said i dont doubt his skill at all, he seems to have fallen between the cracks, i dont expect a meteoric rise from this league either

And he was struggling to get playing time in League Two. Which is the main reason he sought out a place to play and agreed to come to TFC.

If he had not come to TFC his next move was either to another League Two team or even possibly the Conference.

[CSO_BBTB]

And why was that? Odds on there were attitude problems and the word on the grapevine about him within the English game was not good.

[Ossington Mental Youth]

not to mention that he wants regular playing time

[menefreghista]

And why was that? Odds on there were attitude problems and the word on the grapevine about him within the English game was not good.

The reasons are all just speculation. For all we know he didn't take his career seriously. Or due to his past at ManU he felt entitled.

Maybe coming to Toronto was the kick in the ass he needed?

The only thing we know for sure is that he has been a stand out for TFC. Whether we can retain him or he uses his success at TFC as a springboard to a better league in England is still unwritten.

[Whoop]

It's too bad Stevanovic didn't work out like Eckersley.

But you can't win them all.

[menefreghista]

It's too bad Stevanovic didn't work out like Eckersley.

But you can't win them all.

Ya. They both had similar career trajectories that brought them to Toronto.

It will be interesting to see where Stevanovic ends up next season. My guess is a lower Serie B club or even a C1 club. And a move to his home countries domestic league wouldn't surprise me.

[PopePouri]

If he had the chance, I believe he would sign here. If he goes back to Burnley, what are the chances of him sitting on the bench again?

I also think it's easy to underestimate the quality of MLS. The league has come along way.

[ManUtd4ever]

Eckersley and Plata are the first TFC players on loan deals that have warranted a buyout based on their contributions to the club, if they are willing to sign long term contracts in Toronto of course. I would be extremely disappointed if either of them are returned to their former clubs.

[KGH]

^^^


Any word on when we may see Nana, Dicoy or Harden again?

On the MLS injury site it has Dicoy out recovering from knee surgery.

A quick google search:

A Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan done on Thursday night has revealed a partial tear to the anterior cruciate ligament as well as an Avulsion of the right lateral collateral ligament in Dicoy Williams's right knee.


The scan was done at the Diagnostic Health Tyson's Corner in Virginia on Thursday night, and following the examination of the full report yesterday morning, it was decided that the 24-year-old player return to his club for treatment, most likely an arthroscopic surgery and rehabilitation, which could take the player out of action for up to four weeks.

Read more: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/sport/Boyz-lose-defender-Williams-ahead-of-US-match-up_9026562#ixzz1RLH3akK1


That was June 18th so it looks like his return could be, at the earliest, the 20th.

[Lennon]

Don't look now but Nick LaBrocca scored his 5th goal today for Chivas USA (http://www.mlssoccer.com/videos?id=16671).
With Koevermans coming in, it looks like Gordon is going to have to ride the bench just as he was getting healthy ...
:facepalm:

Why can't this team ever get the best out of its players?

[Ossington Mental Youth]

Labrocca was still of no use to us.
Hes an average MLS midfielder, i dont regret the trade for a minute

[Stryker]

Wonder what it would take to get Califf from Philly. He's exactly what we need.

[Lennon]

LaBrocca scores 10,000th goal (http://www.mlssoccer.com/matchcenter/2011-07-09-sporting-kansas-city-vs-chivas-usa/highlights?videoID=16728)

[Nuvinho]

Wonder what it would take to get Califf from Philly. He's exactly what we need.

Bobby Boswell is a better option - lost his starting job in Houston it seems.

[peeshman]

im all for signing players that can enhance the image and play of TFC from the US, Europe or S. America but do we really have no local talent that have potentially gone overseen in recent years??

Im not talking about developing players from the academy, Im talking about players that are a little older with previous european, a league, national team experience.

In my humble opinion, im pretty sure I could put together a team from the GTA, that on a any given day would give TFC a run for there money.

Players like, Desi Humphreys, Gomez, Westmass, Bedenikovic, Andre Da Silva, Nacimento, Adrian Pena, Jamal Smith, Scepanoivc, Braletic, Maletic, Pirija.

I just named a starting eleven that could play with, if not beat our current TFC squad.

Gargan, Peterson, Harden, the list goes on with players that have no business being on this squad or in this league.

I bet if you put those 3 players in the CSL, you would never guess they played at a high level in there entire lives!!

My thoughts for the day!

[jloome]

im all for signing players that can enhance the image and play of TFC from the US, Europe or S. America but do we really have no local talent that have potentially gone overseen in recent years??

Im not talking about developing players from the academy, Im talking about players that are a little older with previous european, a league, national team experience.

In my humble opinion, im pretty sure I could put together a team from the GTA, that on a any given day would give TFC a run for there money.

Players like, Desi Humphreys, Gomez, Westmass, Bedenikovic, Andre Da Silva, Nacimento, Adrian Pena, Jamal Smith, Scepanoivc, Braletic, Maletic, Pirija.

I just named a starting eleven that could play with, if not beat our current TFC squad.

Gargan, Peterson, Harden, the list goes on with players that have no business being on this squad or in this league.

I bet if you put those 3 players in the CSL, you would never guess they played at a high level in there entire lives!!

My thoughts for the day!

Half those guys have either been scouted by or had tryouts with TFC, and suggesting a CSL all-star team would keep up with an MLS team? Not on your life

[menefreghista]

I don't buy the argument that the CSL is just bursting with players ready to make TFC better. Sure there might be a couple of guys ready to make the jump.

But if they are so good, why wouldn't Vancouver or Montreal or even Edmonton be going after them? They also wouldn't mind having some cheap Canadian talent.

[ag futbol]

Half those guys have either been scouted by or had tryouts with TFC, and suggesting a CSL all-star team would keep up with an MLS team? Not on your life
I doubt they'd keep up but it has been reported before that TFC has been beaten a few times in closed-door friendless by CSL sides.

So the all-around quality isn't terrible.

[peeshman]

half those guys have had trials with tfc and haven't signed, ur right - but dont you think it goes to show the bs and politics behind TFC, and perhaps the reason for the quality on the field as we speak....

Harden, Gargan, Peterson, Sturgis the list goes on like I said previously, those guys wouldnt make a difference for teams in the CSL.


Jloome - continue watching and enjoying the game, but until you know what you're talking about, specifically comparing and thinking that MLS players are that above and beyond those guys i listed, you need some serious schooling in this matter

On top of that, ag futbol, you're absolutely right about those closed door friendlies. There has been a few occasions where our so called pro team has been beaten by csl players.

In regards to the whole MTL, Van and Edmonton comment - those 3 teams are above and beyond bs - don't get me started on Nick Desantis at MTL, or Lenarduzzi at Van - there's a reason Van is in last, and MTL never picks up local talent, unless you consider Adam Braz talent...

I mean come on guys, I love watching TFC grow as a franchise, but jesus, its becoming a lot like our prided Leafs, every year is a rebuilding year. Get rid of these guys you draft from NCAA, they're crap!!!!!!!!!

Ive played A-League, MISL, NCAA and a brief stint in europe, not too say I would make a diff on TFC, but when you're personally played with and against these guys, and you see them making 6 figures, its a joke!!!

[menefreghista]

half those guys have had trials with tfc and haven't signed, ur right - but dont you think it goes to show the bs and politics behind TFC, and perhaps the reason for the quality on the field as we speak.....

But if they are so good, why wouldn't Montreal pick these same guys up? The Impact reserve team plays in the CSL, so you figure these untapped CSL players would be easy to scout.

Team are always looking to improve their squad. Winning is more important than 'politics'.

[peeshman]

well to be fair, a lot of these guys are 26 and older, so its understandable as to why they arent being picked up...there's lots of young guys with potential now, so id rather take those kids and develop them.

lets be fair, myself included, ive picked up some bad habits (lazy) over the years from not training everyday like i use too...

i dont want to seem like im totally against TFC. but there are more players on that squad that dont belong there compared to those that do!

[Wooster_TFC]

It also wouldn't surprise me if most of them make more than 70k in their current job. Would you want a career CSLer on a contract at 70k+?

If any of them actually impressed during trials and were given an offer, I'd bet it was at league min, which I don't blame them for turning down.

[Oldtimer]

Dasan Robinson coming in?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dasan_Robinson

[[NBF]]

Wow, where would you people be if i hadn't started this thread and updated it regularly. New updated roster is up:)

Really, what the hell is this? This is almost as confusing as the legendary 2007 year.