TFC 2012-2013 off-season general player moves/speculation/etc.

[gracos]

6 Month loan, I wonder if there is a nice clause to purchase in there if he's successful.

Is Plata coming back?

Where are you getting the length of his contract from, unfortunately until TFC reports it I will have to take the news with a grain of salt, I hope that this would be true, but we have to wait for it to become official

[moralis]

It does say a six month loan, that's until August. It has to be until the end of the season with an option to buy.

Arnold Peralta is an attacking midfielder. He's a younger version of Amado Guevara.

I think Amado had a helping hand in scouting this guy and recommending him to Kevin Payne.

[ArmenJBX]

I can confirm the signing based on my sources, as well as C.D.S. Vida president Carla Dip stating the signing is legit.

We should see an official announcement in the coming days, possibly after new years though.

[ArmenJBX]

Correction: It's not a six-month loan. It's a full signing.

[gracos]

I can confirm the signing based on my sources, as well as C.D.S. Vida president Carla Dip stating the signing is legit.

We should see an official announcement in the coming days, possibly after new years though.

Armen, thank you for verifying this story, I definitely do appreciate the verification, I really want to put full faith in TFC, just will take a little bit longer after the previous years, which we all had to deal with

[Jpexxx]

This move excites me greatly.

[TFC1154ever]

This move excites me greatly.

+1!!

[moralis]

Look at this possible deal from a Colorado Rapids reporter:

Justin Hein ‏@justin_hein (https://twitter.com/justin_hein) “@mlsrumors (https://twitter.com/mlsrumors): Same source says Jeff Larentowitz will be traded to Toronto FC.” I'd say we'd get the # 1 or 3 SuperDraft pic plus allocation $

https://twitter.com/justin_hein

[Lucky Strike]

This move excites me greatly.

Absolutely, this is EXACTLY the type of player that we would need (assuming he is a Guevara-like player like it's been stated).

Also according to @MLSRumors on Twitter, Jeff Larentowicz will be traded to TFC. Thoughts (after including the obligatory disclaimer about MLSR)?

[ArmenJBX]

Peralta will not be a designated player.

I'm working on the Jeff Larentowicz story now, will keep you guys posted.

[ArmenJBX]

For what it's worth, Amado Guevara scouted him for us (allegedly) and Peralta's agency is giving Kevin Payne glowing reviews for leadership.

[moralis]

Hi Armen,

Can you ask Ives Garlarcep if he's heard anything about the Jeff Larentowicz to TFC deal?

[Morlesio14]

Wouldn't mind Larentowicz. Much better than Ledgerwood for that matter. Would we let go of Frings to free up some space to sign some wingers???

[khso11]

im looking forward to seeing them both in the red jersey!!!!

[ManUtd4ever]

Exciting stuff!

[Ajax TFC]

For what it's worth, Amado Guevara scouted him for us (allegedly) and Peralta's agency is giving Kevin Payne glowing reviews for leadership.
sorry, I'm a little confused. Is the Agency highly impressed with Payne's leadership, or are they telling Payne that Peralta possesses great leadership?

[GuelphStorm2007]

Until it is officially announced I am not going to say anything But if it is true well done Mr Payne

[mowe]

I would be ecstatic if we got Larentowicz. He is exactly the type of midfielder this team sorely lacked last season.

Damn I wish I'm not getting my hopes up for nothing.

[kuku]

It's official (in Spanish) according to MLS transfers:

MLS Transfers ‏@MLSTransfers“@PhilSchoen (http://redpatchboys.ca/PhilSchoen): Toronto FC signs Arnold Peralta http://www.latribuna.hn/2012/12/27/toronto-ficho-a-peralta/ … (http://t.co/owE174en)” New signing #TFC (http://redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23TFC&src=hash) fans #MLStransfers (http://redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23MLStransfers&src=hash)

[flatpicker]

Man, is it ever nice to see TFC making moves.
So far, they look promising.

I really hope I will be thankful for not passing on the STH renewal.

[moralis]

A Honduran fan who watched Arnold Peralta play says he is a defensive midfielder/right back and not an attacking midfielder. He actually marked Neymar at the London Olympics. Looks like he will play alongside Torsten Frings.

http://www.bigsoccer.com/community/threads/toronto-fc-sign-honduran-international-arnold-peralta.1980247/ (http://www.bigsoccer.com/community/threads/toronto-fc-sign-honduran-international-arnold-peralta.1980247/#post-26970252)

I thought Mariner was trying to sign Scandinavian midfielders not Honduran. Seems like Payne is running the show and not Mariner, which is good. I think Guevara had a hand in scouting and then recommending him to Payne.

[moralis]

It seems the Jeff Larentowicz deal to TFC is not true:

Chris Bianchi ‏@Rapids_News (https://twitter.com/Rapids_News) Believe #Rapids (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23Rapids&src=hash) would deal Larentowicz under right circumstances. But Toronto rumour is false.

Chris Bianchi ‏@Rapids_News (https://twitter.com/Rapids_News)
Several teams have inquired about Larentowicz. But #Rapids (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23Rapids&src=hash) holding off - for now.

https://twitter.com/Rapids_News
(https://twitter.com/Rapids_News)

[moralis]

Hi Armen,

Do you you have any additional info on the Jeff Larentowicz to TFC rumour?

[James17930]

This was in the MLS rumours today:

"The latest in a long line of Catratchos appears to be U-23 midfielder Arnold Peralta, who also has one senior cap to his name. On Thursday morning, the 23-year-old's Honduran club, CD Vida, tweeted that he was headed to Toronto."

http://www.mlssoccer.com/sites/league/files/Arnold-Peralta.jpg


http://www.mlssoccer.com/blog/rumor-central/2012/12/27/rumor-central-toronto-fc-latest-club-tap-honduran-pipeline

[Ajax TFC]

I thought Mariner was trying to sign Scandinavian midfielders not Honduran. Seems like Payne is running the show and not Mariner, which is good. I think Guevara had a hand in scouting and then recommending him to Payne.
We all know Mariner scouts international tournaments on TV, so maybe he watched the Honduras - Brazil olympic game. And if he did, don't be surprised to see more Ecks at CB and Peralta at RB, and Dunfield in CM.

[golaso.gol]

Looking forward to find out more details on player....any Hondurans on the board?

[dantdot]

Looking forward to find out more details on player....any Hondurans on the board?

Some posts from a Hunduran fan on BS http://www.bigsoccer.com/community/threads/toronto-fc-sign-honduran-international-arnold-peralta.1980247/

Appears he plays defensive mid and right back, not attacking mid as his wiki says.

[moralis]

Looks like it's pretty much happening: Comments from Peralta himself

http://translate.google.ca/translate?hl=en&sl=es&tl=en&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.diez.hn%2FInicio%2FEdiciones%2F 2012%2F12%2F27%2FNoticias%2FArnold-Peralta-Estoy-con-todas-las-ganas-de-irme-al-Toronto%23.UNzjh3eWRvB

Interested to see how much the transfer is and how much he's getting paid?

[Oldtimer]

sorry, I'm a little confused. Is the Agency highly impressed with Payne's leadership, or are they telling Payne that Peralta possesses great leadership?

Either way, it's pretty good isn't it?

As for Payne's leadership skills, you only have to ask any DC Supporter to find out that they consider him solid and straightforward.

[TFC07]

Wow, looks like a good signing on paper at least. Peralta sounds like an up and coming player for Honduras so getting him now makes this a good signing.

[ryan]

Looks like a good move. Now lets see how Mariner uses him...

...goalkeeper?

[ArmenJBX]

Jeff Larentowitz is a twitter rumour for now, I haven't heard anything legit from anyone.

[19Barrett19]

DC United supporters are also writing about this as well seems they are a little worried that Payne is using his connections now with TFC. I personally expect nothing less. BTW +1 for this signing if true.

Here is the DC article...
http://www.blackandredunited.com/2012/12/27/3810034/arnold-peralta-toronto-fc-contract-transfer-fee-loan

[Morlesio14]

I would have rather had Peralta play CAM instead of DM. Would be a good signing anyway

[Auzzy]

I have bad memories of Peralta from the WCQ games. Which is a good thing for TFC. Solid signing if true.

[Richard]

I would have rather had Peralta play CAM instead of DM. Would be a good signing anyway

We have Silva who filsl that role, however he is a player who can fill in for injuries at CAM. Cleary this a longer term signing, Frings is gone the next year so it will be good for him to recieve some mentorship.

Im very interested in the Fee, i dont think his club would let him go for free.

[Morlesio14]

Can or did he ever play CAM? It says on Wikipedia he plays attacking midfielder.

[Ultra & Proud]

Can or did he ever play CAM? It says on Wikipedia he plays attacking midfielder.

Seems he has been always used as either DM or RB with his club and national team. No AM.

[Canary10]

Mariner rarely plays with a central attacking midfielder anyway. He wants old style box to box midfielders with pace and work ethic. Peralta seems to be in that mold (we'll wait and see on work ethic).

[MartinUtd]

DC United supporters are also writing about this as well seems they are a little worried that Payne is using his connections now with TFC. I personally expect nothing less. BTW +1 for this signing if true.

Here is the DC article...
http://www.blackandredunited.com/2012/12/27/3810034/arnold-peralta-toronto-fc-contract-transfer-fee-loan

What a retarded article. It's as if the writer expected Payne to keep working for DCU from the TFC front office.

[kuku]

Check out the front page of this newspaper in Honduras: http://ediciones.tiempo.hn/index.php/home

[SKB]

Taking Stock

So a lot of moves have been made in the last two months and it is time to take stock of where we are

Startering 11
Eckersly - RB
O'Dea - CB
Califf - CB
Morgan - LB
Frings - M
??? - M
Silva - M
??? - M
??? - S
Hasli - S
Frei - G
8


Depth
Carry Over:
Amerika - S
Lambe - M
Emory - D
Henry - D
Dunfield - M
Jeremy Hall-D
Wiedermann - S
Add:
Gale Agbossoumonde - D
Braun - S
Bendik - G
Arnold Peralta - M
11

There is no doubt we have significantly improved the depth of the club. However, the starting 11 has not really improved dramatically with the exception of the new CB (Califf). Although we have complained a lot about our back 4, and justly so, the real issue has been our midfield. We need another three starting midfielders. I like the combination of Peralta/Frings at holding mid but we need two strong outside mids with speed that can start today. As well, we need a strong attacking midfielder. Silva still needs to grow and he should be #2 on the depth chart of attacking midfielders.

We need one strong striker to pair with Hasli. There is no guarantee that Kovermanns will return or if he does will he be at the same level as he was before. If Kovermanns can't go then we are really thin at the striker position.

We may get one player from the superdraft to fill one of the gaps in the midfield or striker position, but that is about all we can expect. There are still more trades or acquisitions that need to be taken to fill out the starting 11.

Mr Payne has done a good job to date, but the next 60 days are critical to upgrade the starting 11.

[jloome]

Taking Stock

So a lot of moves have been made in the last two months and it is time to take stock of where we are

Startering 11
Eckersly - RB
O'Dea - CB
Califf - CB
Morgan - LB
Frings - M
??? - M
Silva - M
??? - M
??? - S
Hasli - S
Frei - G
8


Depth
Carry Over:
Amerika - S
Lambe - M
Emory - D
Henry - D
Dunfield - M
Jeremy Hall-D
Wiedermann - S
Add:
Gale Agbossoumonde - D
Braun - S
Bendik - G
Arnold Peralta - M
11

There is no doubt we have significantly improved the depth of the club. However, the starting 11 has not really improved dramatically with the exception of the new CB (Califf). Although we have complained a lot about our back 4, and justly so, the real issue has been our midfield. We need another three starting midfielders. I like the combination of Peralta/Frings at holding mid but we need two strong outside mids with speed that can start today. As well, we need a strong attacking midfielder. Silva still needs to grow and he should be #2 on the depth chart of attacking midfielders.

We need one strong striker to pair with Hasli. There is no guarantee that Kovermanns will return or if he does will he be at the same level as he was before. If Kovermanns can't go then we are really thin at the striker position.

We may get one player from the superdraft to fill one of the gaps in the midfield or striker position, but that is about all we can expect. There are still more trades or acquisitions that need to be taken to fill out the starting 11.

Mr Payne has done a good job to date, but the next 60 days are critical to upgrade the starting 11.

Peralta's not coming as "depth." No team in this league is paying transfer fees for depth. He played right mid for the Honduran Olympic team, and that's probably where he'll line up for us.

[MartinUtd]

Also, you left Koevermans off the list (unless there's some news I missed)

[Luanda]

By my reckoning, we are still missing one striker and 2 midfielders.

[ag futbol]

By my reckoning, we are still missing one striker and 2 midfielders.
Yep, I was thinking the same thing.

It's hard to picture how the parts come together in a good way with the current collection of guys.

[Red CB Toronto]

The Reds will be getting some pretty good players, ready to step in via the SuperDraft.

[Phil]

Plata should be back in the lineup this year.

[SKB]

Peralta's not coming as "depth." No team in this league is paying transfer fees for depth. He played right mid for the Honduran Olympic team, and that's probably where he'll line up for us.

The little research I did indicated he was defensive midfielder, so I assumed he was a holding mid and he would gradually replace Frings. However, if he plays right mid that is good to hear.

[SKB]

Also, you left Koevermans off the list (unless there's some news I missed)

No you did not miss any news. The injury that Kovermanns sustained is very serious at his age and could be a career ending injury. That is why TFC secured Hasli. The big "K"is a question mark so that is why I left him off the list. If he comes back great, that is a bonus, but based on today we need another solid striker.

[ag futbol]

I think we need a second striker to push Silva for his spot in anycase. Otherwise we could be relying on the greatest finisher in the modern era, which doesn't fil me with confidence.

With Payne being a huge believer in high pressure I find it unlikely we'd field two lumbering guys up top neither of which are really suited for tracking back or continually pressuring the ball.

[Wooster_TFC]

Silva is not a starter, not yet anyways.

Peralta will be a starter, as stated by jloome. And don't be too surprised to see Dunfield in there as a starter. Plata will be a striker.

Really, we need two more midfielders, ideally both of starter quality. One starter and one bench rotation player would be okay too. Also, an experienced LB would be great, but I doubt that's coming.

I still like the 4-3-1-2.

GK: Frei
D: Ecks Califf O'Dea Morgan
M: Peralta Dunfield New Guy
AM: Frings
ST: Hassli Koevermans

We now have decent depth at striker to cover for Koevermans, and we will just have to wait and see if he needs to be replaced. Braun, Plata, Amarikwa, Silva, Weideman. They all play ST. It makes no sense to tie up more of the cap on another striker, when you don't know what's what with Koevermans. Especially since we REALLY need to upgrade in the midfield.

[West220Side]

Silva is not a starter, not yet anyways.

Peralta will be a starter, as stated by jloome. And don't be too surprised to see Dunfield in there as a starter. Plata will be a striker.

Really, we need two more midfielders, ideally both of starter quality. One starter and one bench rotation player would be okay too. Also, an experienced LB would be great, but I doubt that's coming.

I still like the 4-3-1-2.

GK: Frei
D: Ecks Califf O'Dea Morgan
M: Peralta Dunfield New Guy
AM: Frings
ST: Hassli Koevermans

We now have decent depth at striker to cover for Koevermans, and we will just have to wait and see if he needs to be replaced. Braun, Plata, Amarikwa, Silva, Weideman. They all play ST. It makes no sense to tie up more of the cap on another striker, when you don't know what's what with Koevermans. Especially since we REALLY need to upgrade in the midfield.

Frings wont be playing attacking midfield position not because he's not qualified, he's scored goals, created the chances for them all through his career, but he can't. He's to old and to slow in my opinion, all he's got is an amazing footballers brain from a wonderful career. He can park himself in the middle of the pitch infront of the back four, and know guy #1 is going to go this way, guy #2 is going to wait for the ball, guy #3 needs to be marked or he'll slip past my centreback. He doesn't hardly run anymore, he just knows where to be and moves himself over towards the space. I'm waiting for him to be moved on before the pre-season begins. Kevin Payne said he doesn't want any old players, especially designated players. Id bet a good chunk of change that he'll be moved, or retire before the preseason if not during it but not before we announce a signing of a player like Larentowicz for example who was rumored (but now unlikely). I can see us signing a midfielder who can attack more then defend perhaps somebody between the ages of 26-29 he'll be on a moderate salary but not a designated player.

Secondly if we have Paul Mariner at the helm next season, we'll be playing a flat 4-4-2. That means the midfield will be FLAT ie. a straight line. Payne can sign whoever he wants, sell whoever he wants, but he can't control what Mariner plays (unless he loses, then he can be fired). If you recall into last season, you'll remember after Koevermans injury we were playing a single lone striker of Hassli, with a natural centre attacking midfielder in Silva playing directly behind him. Like Barrett, and De Rosario used to do. There are no attacking midfielders in Mariners flat 4-4-2. You can have two holding midfielders, which could be anything from Peralta (DEFENSIVE MINDED) & Unnamed (ATTACKING MINDED) or maybe even Dunfield (DEFENSIVE MINDED) & Unnamed. Though I can see more and more that Dunfield will be a depth player/reserve/leader(*) and you'll see Peralta starting at centre defensive midfield(**) because who uses a international slot on a bench player?


(*) Yes, Dunfield is a leader, lets not start that debate here. He was our MVP last season, and played his massive heart out every game he played, just because he doesn't have as much quality as the next guy doesn't mean he wont be the guy who talks to young canadians, lets them know how lucky they are to have this opportunity he didn't, don't forget, he's a little tough guy, he can teach younger guys how to play mean.

(**) Just for the lulz, watch Mariner play Peralta at rightback, and Eckersley at centreback again.

[jloome]

Payne can sign whoever he wants, sell whoever he wants, but he can't control what Mariner plays

I agree with a lot of what you're saying about Frings, but Payne can tell Mariner to do whatever he wants, including what formation to play. And he hasn't preferred a flat 4-4-2 in DC. He might here, but given the team we're putting together so far I'd be surprised if he didn't play a 4-3-3- with a diamond top, or something that allows for Silva or another AM/Forward in the hole. Just basing that on who we have right now.

[Gazza]

I agree with a lot of what you're saying about Frings, but Payne can tell Mariner to do whatever he wants, including what formation to play. And he hasn't preferred a flat 4-4-2 in DC. He might here, but given the team we're putting together so far I'd be surprised if he didn't play a 4-3-3- with a diamond top, or something that allows for Silva or another AM/Forward in the hole. Just basing that on who we have right now.

The day a president tells the coach what team to play and what formation to play, is the day the coach resigns. Which...might be something to shove into Mr. Payne's suggestion box.

I'm no Mariner fan, but i would be very uncomfortable with another front office sticking their noses into on-field operations. If Payne doesn't agree with Mariner's philosophy, then fire him now and bring in your own guy.

[Richard]

The day a president tells the coach what team to play and what formation to play, is the day the coach resigns. Which...might be something to shove into Mr. Payne's suggestion box.

I'm no Mariner fan, but i would be very uncomfortable with another front office sticking their noses into on-field operations. If Payne doesn't agree with Mariner's philosophy, then fire him now and bring in your own guy.

In Europe Payne would seen as the manager, but thats another topic for another day.

I too am very interested how PM is going to be handled. Im guessing he has been given a short rope so he better follow Payne's ideas or he better win with his own, either way its PM wont last long.

[ag futbol]

The obvious solution is to give him enough personal freedom to fall on his own sword. His own inflexibility will be the end of him. His "players dictate the system" quote has to be a piece of black comedy. Clearly Mariner's tactical knowledge centers on a certain style of play and doesn't go much further. He's going to continue to try and jam square pegs in round holes, or leave out higher quality parts for lower ones, because that's what he knows.

Not sure why we even bother with the formality of him starting the season. Don't think it will be hard to get rid of him, especially with the tough early schedule.

[West220Side]

I forgot you can't mention Mariners name without starting a full debate about his tactics, etc.
On topic: I think we need another MLS center midfielder with playmaker abilities (such as the rumored Larentowicz) to replace Frings ahead of this season.

Frings was named as our captain, and having this discussion the other day with my father I made the point that well Frings is just to old to captain this team at the very minimum, he has the abilities and the knowledge but travelling week after week, and playing wednesday night, then saturday afternoon is just to much on his body, if you watch you can tell. I honestly think its just time for him to coach.

[spe18]

I forgot you can't mention Mariners name without starting a full debate about his tactics, etc.
On topic: I think we need another MLS center midfielder with playmaker abilities (such as the rumored Larentowicz) to replace Frings ahead of this season.

Frings was named as our captain, and having this discussion the other day with my father I made the point that well Frings is just to old to captain this team at the very minimum, he has the abilities and the knowledge but travelling week after week, and playing wednesday night, then saturday afternoon is just to much on his body, if you watch you can tell. I honestly think its just time for him to coach.

Yes, but what are the chances of MLSE buying out his contract for this year for the entire amount? My guess is that if the team indeeds try the buyout route, you are going to run into the exact same problem you had with JDG this past season.

[West220Side]

Yes, but what are the chances of MLSE buying out his contract for this year for the entire amount? My guess is that if the team indeeds try the buyout route, you are going to run into the exact same problem you had with JDG this past season.

I think since they're having there last shot with Payne basically, if Payne says he needs Frings gone to give him more room to mold the team to a 'successful' season. MLSE will do whatever it takes.

[Morlesio14]

I think since they're having there last shot with Payne basically, if Payne says he needs Frings gone to give him more room to mold the team to a 'successful' season. MLSE will do whatever it takes.

I really hope that'll happen. We could use Peralta at staring Dfensive mid, Dunfield playing backup. Were 3 to 4 players away. LM, RM, CM, ST those are what we need.

[mowe]

I really hope that'll happen. We could use Peralta at staring Dfensive mid, Dunfield playing backup. Were 3 to 4 players away. LM, RM, CM, ST those are what we need.

I doubt MLSE will buyout Frings' expensive contract. That's a lot of money down the drain and he is our captain. The only option right now is if Frings retires himself. I think Frings/Silva are adequate to pair with Peralta in the center but we desperately need some wide midfielders and a striker. It's going to come down to Payne making the best use of the two draft picks to get us the players we need. And whatever happened with Mariner's Scandinavian trip? Didn't he have like 4 offers out, were they all rejected or what?

[Morlesio14]

I doubt MLSE will buyout Frings' expensive contract. That's a lot of money down the drain and he is our captain. The only option right now is if Frings retires himself. I think Frings/Silva are adequate to pair with Peralta in the center but we desperately need some wide midfielders and a striker. It's going to come down to Payne making the best use of the two draft picks to get us the players we need. And whatever happened with Mariner's Scandinavian trip? Didn't he have like 4 offers out, were they all rejected or what?

Were probably going to add during January. Is it possible to force retire????? :rolleyes:

[Oldtimer]

I don't think Payne will force Frings to retire (unless Frings wants to go) any more than he will force Mariner to leave (yet). He'll wait out the contract.

I hate to tell some of you this, but the roster moves are all about building for 2014. By then Payne will either have a compliant and improved Mariner, or he will have his own guy in charge.At least 2 DP contracts will have expired, and he will put the final touches on a balanced team with a maximum of 1 DP, and maybe none.

So you might as well not worry about 2013 and Frings' contract, Mariner there for part of the season, etc. Just enjoy the ride and realize that 2013 is a writeoff... that's why we're getting 2013 tickets so cheap.

[SKB]

I doubt MLSE will buyout Frings' expensive contract. That's a lot of money down the drain and he is our captain. The only option right now is if Frings retires himself. I think Frings/Silva are adequate to pair with Peralta in the center but we desperately need some wide midfielders and a striker. It's going to come down to Payne making the best use of the two draft picks to get us the players we need. And whatever happened with Mariner's Scandinavian trip? Didn't he have like 4 offers out, were they all rejected or what?

I assume that any offers are restricted until the January transfer window opens. Sweden and Norway open Jan 1st.

[West220Side]

I think all of us here follow football all around the world, and as I was reading an article (http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/rangers-boss-ally-mccoist-looks-1509372) I discovered almost 150 players in the Scottish Premiership will be out of contract come summer. Some people say that the SPL doesn't have any quality, but some people say that about MLS in places of the world. Anybody see anybody on that list (article) that could be a target?

Paddy McCourt​ was rumored to be coming to the MLS, can't remember what team for though? I believe it was Portland.

[gracos]

MLS Transfers ‏@MLSTransfers (https://twitter.com/MLSTransfers) Toronto FC and NE Revs interested in Honduran international David Molina. #TFC (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23TFC&src=hash) #NERevs (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23NERevs&src=hash) #MLStransfers (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23MLStransfers&src=hash)

[Yohan]

seems every honduran player is now linked to MLS

[TFCwestcan]

Quite fascinating that we went from getting veteran Swedes & expats to younger Hondurans. I like the building of defence outward. And unlike Mo's era all before the new year.

[Brooker]

Huh? Did we ever get Swedish players?

[Jpexxx]

Huh? Did we ever get Swedish players?

I don't think we have ever had a swede.

He may have been referring to the rumours from earlier in the off-season where Marinier alluded to being close to a few Scandinavians from his scouting trip to Sweden.

Pretty sure they fell through because of how much the players would have cost.

[Lucky Strike]

@MLSTransfers says both TFC and New England interested in Honduran international David Molina. Wikipedia lists him as a defender who has been with Motagua (Guevara's club) since 2006 making nearly 100 appearances. Age: 24.

If we don't sign him, it's a good sign that we're looking at players 1) we actually need and 2) are entering the prime of their careers. This is not to mention the traditional line of thinking that players from these parts of the world cost less as well.

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

[ensco]

seems every honduran player is now linked to MLS

MLS is doing a hell of a lot more for Concacaf teams like Honduras, than it is for the USMNT or CMNT. There's going to be an uproar about just what MLS is dong if Honduras qualify for WC2014 and USA don't

[bigredone]

Check out the front page of this newspaper in Honduras: http://ediciones.tiempo.hn/index.php/home

Google translate did not do well, but I figure our pool of candidates has increased due to the economico colapso.

[Fort York Redcoat]

Huh? Did we ever get Swedish players?


He's referring to going after Mellberg. Not really "getting" him or any Swedish players but trying to.

[ryan]

MLS is doing a hell of a lot more for Concacaf teams like Honduras, than it is for the USMNT or CMNT. There's going to be an uproar about just what MLS is dong if Honduras qualify for WC2014 and USA don't

It's not like USA doesn't have the talent to qualify, that's simply on Jurgen and the squad if they don't, not MLS.

If not MLS, they'd find other places to play. I think it puts pressure on Canada and USA to improve their national development, competition demands further effort. Nothing hurts Mexico/USA more than having nobody to really test them until they get to the WC itself.

As much as I despise the Honduran scum, I'm all for them coming to MLS and improving the league quality, while forcing the USA/Canada teams to get their shit together or be further embarrassed by this tiny nation.

[Lucky Strike]

David Rowaan (@soccercanada) from Waking the Red reports about Krzysztof Krol hinting at a return to MLS and specifically, Toronto.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krzysztof_Kr%C3%B3l

[Canary10]

David Rowaan (@soccercanada) from Waking the Red reports about Krzysztof Krol hinting at a return to MLS and specifically, Toronto.

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

He did this last year too. Seems like an ongoing New Years eve joke to him. Wish the rest of us understood the punchline.

[ag futbol]

MLS is doing a hell of a lot more for Concacaf teams like Honduras, than it is for the USMNT or CMNT. There's going to be an uproar about just what MLS is dong if Honduras qualify for WC2014 and USA don't
I was going to say - and really this isn't on TFC, it's on the CSA - it's farcical how much more Honduras is benefiting more from this league than we are.

But hey, I guess that's what happens when you have a league that can actually serve to develop players that can then take the next step. Probably the same issue with the USSF pyramid as well.

[ag futbol]

It's not like USA doesn't have the talent to qualify, that's simply on Jurgen and the squad if they don't, not MLS.

If not MLS, they'd find other places to play. I think it puts pressure on Canada and USA to improve their national development, competition demands further effort. Nothing hurts Mexico/USA more than having nobody to really test them until they get to the WC itself.

Well I think that's the thing, has the USSF pressed the MLS hard enough and is the MLS pulling it's weight?

The issue right now with soccer in north america is that nobody wants to actually develop the talent. MLS - at least partially - has some warped sense of what's necessary from looking at other professional leagues that basically get their players developed for free. I don't think they've yet been able to accept that in the type of environment they operate in nobody is going to provide them with a free lunch.

If we continue on as we are, it's always going to be a situation where the majority of the domestics provide the hard work and the imports provide the skill. Think we can do a little bit better.

[mowe]

I was going to say - and really this isn't on TFC, it's on the CSA - it's farcical how much more Honduras is benefiting more from this league than we are.

But hey, I guess that's what happens when you have a league that can actually serve to develop players that can then take the next step. Probably the same issue with the USSF pyramid as well.

That's really the key. Honduras has dozens of pro clubs with an organized league structure. Players can develop and then move on to better leagues like the MLS or elsewhere. Canada's primary pipeline for developing talent is 3 professional academies that are in their infancy and 4 professional clubs.

I would disagree with ensco that MLS is doing more for Honduras than USA. The States are clearly benefiting greatly from the MLS, NCAA, and NASL. They have a system for players to develop, and flawed as it is, still has been producing talent that has made USA a lock for every World Cup.

Because MLS was designed to serve USSF's interests, it really falls on the three Canadian clubs to take the initiative on developing Canadian talent. Unfortunately they've tried their best to remove any incentive to do just that.

[ensco]

I think this article lays it out pretty nicely. Obviously it's hard to be definitive, but imho, while the US benefit from MLS, other Concacaf countries are benefitting more.


http://www.grantland.com/blog/the-triangle/post/_/id/39613/is-mls-making-the-rest-of-concacaf-better-at-the-expense-of-the-us-national-team

[Richard]

Competition is good, allows for others to step their game up or look for work elsewhere.

CSA is still a mess, they cant expect the 3 Canadian mls teams to develop players for them.

It boggles the mind how they cant atleast just copy a simple proven system for elsewhere.

[mowe]

I've read that article and it boils down to this: MLS serves as the goal for other CONCACAF countries while US players use it as a stepping stone to European leagues. In that sense yes MLS has more non-US internationals, but you can't ignore the players who started in MLS and moved on to better leagues. According the article 9 of the starting US 11 in the Jamaica game had MLS experience. Clearly the league is doing its job. Top US players can use MLS to gain exposure and move to Europe while the MLS-level talent still get their opportunities domestically.

No doubt other CONCACAF countries including Canada are benefiting from MLS. But it's not at the expense of the US. The roster rules are set up to give American players a big advantage.

[Yohan]

Because MLS was designed to serve USSF's interests, it really falls on the three Canadian clubs to take the initiative on developing Canadian talent. Unfortunately they've tried their best to remove any incentive to do just that. I'm pretty sure Canadian teams would rather win MLS Cups than develop Canadian talent

[Yohan]

Google translate did not do well, but I figure our pool of candidates has increased due to the economico colapso.

http://translate.google.ca/translate?sl=auto&tl=en&js=n&prev=_t&hl=en&ie=UTF-8&eotf=1&u=http%3A%2F%2Fmx.noticias.yahoo.com%2Fjugadores-honduras-amenazan-huelgas-salarios-atrasados-173655917--spt.html

Honduran league in crisis. Pretty much fire sale going on right now. Article pretty much confirms Peralta to TFC

[mowe]

I'm pretty sure Canadian teams would rather win MLS Cups than develop Canadian talent

Agreed. But ideally they'd use Canadian talent to win MLS Cups. With the quota what it is, there's less incentive for Canadian teams to develop local talent.

[ag futbol]

Agreed. But ideally they'd use Canadian talent to win MLS Cups. With the quota what it is, there's less incentive for Canadian teams to develop local talent.
Exactly. Lets not forget that the major business reason for local content is so that fans build a greater connection with the team, something that was seen as a major obstacle with the NASL.

To me, if this a middle of the road professional league can't eventually up the domestic content quotient in Canada it's got no enduring quality. I can understand the need to be accommodating in the early going but in the long run things have to be better. Really we're not talking about producing world beaters here or saving the CSA's bacon on LTPD, it's about putting a handful of Canadians on the field with the foreign players to really get a local team we can be proud of.

[Yohan]

http://rednationonline.ca/Articles2012/Henryreadytofightforposition.aspx

Doneil Henry's new contract is till 2016

[bigredone]

I am having to do a great amount of connection building with some of the recent signings. I agree with what is said above entirely and hope our local boys can kick the shit out of other local Canadian boys. (sorry, that last line was a measuring contest ;)


GREAT NEWS WITH HENRY!!!! FUCK YA!!!!

[West220Side]

Come the summer about 100 top flight players in England will be out of contract. A few of them have been rumored to be coming to the MLS already (some confirmed)

Players like... Carlo Cudicini, Richard Dunne.

Also, Simeon Jacksons contract expires around that time too, boys.

[Couchy81]

I'd take Plata and Jackson, as for the rest, I wouldn't risk anything more than an average MLS wage, top flight leftovers are still leftovers for a reason.

[razor787]

Lets get this thread back on track boys.

This seems like it would be a good pickup, and if the teams NEED money, then we could have gotten a great deal on him.

Although I dislike the Honduran team for that embarrassing game, If they have players that can come over here and improve my club team, I will accept them with open arms.

[ryan]

I'm on a "white knight carebear crusade"! Too funny. You have a way with words, I'll give you that!

There is a massive difference in saying you "hate" the Impact or Vancouver teams, or even their players, and saying you hate "Hondurans" (or any other nationality) even if you clarify only after being called on it that you only mean footballers

You are damn lucky we live in a country where hate speech is protected.

I didn't want to respond but if you're going to continue to paint an entirely incorrect picture about me personally....

This is a football site! Did I have to be so clear? You choose to put words in my mouth AFTER I answered Dom's clarification request that it was about international football. Go ahead, look, it's just 3 posts above to follow the timeline.


This conversation never had anything to do with you and you mucked up your attempt at being a keyboard hero. /truestory

[Ajax TFC]

You are damn lucky we live in a country where hate speech is protected.
Holy fuck. Where was I when not liking players from a hated rival became referred to as "hate speech"? Do you accuse Tottenham fans of hate speech for not liking Arsenal players/fans, or vice versa? Or Barcelona fans for hating Real Madrid players and vice versa? And the list goes on for pretty much any two rival teams

[ensco]

^I'm talking about what he wrote originally, not where he moved to, or what you are saying here. There is an obvious difference when this language is used with reference to clubs, and using it for nationalities.

[Wagner]

Because I consider Honduran footballers scum you're going to assume all this nonsense?

How dramatically ridiculous. I'm not getting carried away, you are.


I don't give a shit about Honduran footballers, never will. Get over it or ban me from the site. They are my country's hated rival, but I'm being scolded for hating them? LOL.

I have nothing to apologize for, this is football.

ryan,
how about not using such a broad brush.

[justin]

how about all of you shut the hell up and take your internet fighting to PM so i don't come in to check this thread for actual player movement information and end up stuck reading a useless bitch fest. this is the same problem that plagued last season's player movement thread. your arguments ARE NOT RELEVANT TO THE THREAD TOPIC

[ag futbol]

^I'm talking about what he wrote originally, not where he moved to, or what you are saying here. There is an obvious difference when this language is used with reference to clubs, and using it for nationalities.
I don’t know if I’d go with xenophobia as much as comically misplaced hatred in the eye of some homer sports fan. Have our rivals really done much to us to inspire this level of passion or is it really just a another way for us to express our frustration at our own ineptitude?

I was at BMO field for the Honduras game. I yelled obscenities at the away team until my voice was gone. When the game was over, it was over. Am I going to begrudge some guy from their nat team who wants to play for TFC? Not a chance, he just wants to make it as a professional like everyone else and he could help our team. It’s just one more international on our squad.

[ensco]

I don’t know if I’d go with xenophobia as much as comically misplaced hatred in the eye of some homer sports fan.

That's a good point. I'll hope thats true.

I just don't feel like letting it slide when someone labels a whole nationality "scum", which is where this started. Then tries to explain that it's just football, as though it being about football somehow excuses it.

[Derko]

Well now that that has been settled, If Perlata can improve TFC, Honduran or not, I hope it is a good sign of things to come. Come on boys, we are all here for the same reason.

[ManUtd4ever]

I hope Guevara can convince more members of the Honduran national team to join TFC. I'd take any of them in a heartbeat, diving twats, scum, and all.

g:D

[__wowza]

how about all of you shut the hell up and take your internet fighting to PM so i don't come in to check this thread for actual player movement information and end up stuck reading a useless bitch fest. this is the same problem that plagued last season's player movement thread. your arguments ARE NOT RELEVANT TO THE THREAD TOPIC

this. this. and a million times this.

anything in this thread not related to, or commenting on, player movement will be deleted. including that little discussion that was had.

[moralis]

TFC are also interested in signing attacking midfielder Alex Lopez:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexander_López (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexander_L%C3%B3pez)

El Canterano ‏@ElCanteranoHN (https://twitter.com/ElCanteranoHN)
Toronto FC interesados en Alexander López del Olimpia. #MLS (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23MLS&src=hash) #Honduras (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23Honduras&src=hash)

https://twitter.com/ElCanteranoHN

Also surprisingly mentioned in the third paragraph on TFC website:

Players whose names have been lobbed about as worth watching include Louisville midfielder Andrew Farrell, Creighton midfielder Jose Gomez, Mikey Lopez of the University of North Carolina and Honduran national Alex Lopez.

http://www.torontofc.ca/news/2013/01/superdraft-decisions-loom

[ManUtd4ever]

Keep 'em coming Amado!

[West220Side]

Keep 'em coming Amado!

He's sending us the Honduran Maradona! We should make a gigantic banner 10x the size of the Dichio one!

[ManUtd4ever]

He's sending us the Honduran Maradona! We should make a gigantic banner 10x the size of the Dichio one!

LOL.

Although it's the Honduran league, his career numbers are staggering, and he's only 20 years old...

58 appearances (league/CCL), 22 goals, 37 assists

[ag futbol]

Is he in the draft? Why are they talking about this guy like he's on the board? Maybe that number one pick doesn't go anywhere.

This doesn't sound like a guy u pass on

[TOBOR !]

Hey, uh, so, um... Goff has tweeted something about a Portuguese defender close to finalizing a contract with an Eastern Conference MLS squad ? Could that be us ? And if so, who could that defender be ?

[Yohan]

Hey, uh, so, um... Goff has tweeted something about a Portuguese defender close to finalizing a contract with an Eastern Conference MLS squad ? Could that be us ? And if so, who could that defender be ?

http://www.mlssoccer.com/news/article/2012/12/21/revs-eye-goncalves-extend-offers-barrett-freeman

probably this

[Oldtimer]

Also surprisingly mentioned in the third paragraph on TFC website:

Players whose names have been lobbed about as worth watching include Louisville midfielder Andrew Farrell, Creighton midfielder Jose Gomez, Mikey Lopez of the University of North Carolina and Honduran national Alex Lopez.



Not a Bermudan among them! PM is going to be upset! :D

[moralis]

No Alex Lopez is not a player in the draft. Surprised his name is in the article. He would cost a pretty penny. Also forget to mention that the Houston Dynamo is also interested in Lopez. This is because of Honduran Oscar Boneik Garcia.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexander_L%C3%B3pez

http://www.mlssoccer.com/blog/post/2012/12/30/rumor-central-honduran-youngster-alex-lopez-headed-mls

[SKB]

He's sending us the Honduran Maradona! We should make a gigantic banner 10x the size of the Dichio one!

Is this the attacking midfielder we have been looking for? Interesting that his name was mentioned on the TFC site. Looking for some concrete signings in the next week or so.

[TOBOR !]

http://www.mlssoccer.com/news/article/2012/12/21/revs-eye-goncalves-extend-offers-barrett-freeman

probably this

no doubt. meh.

[Yohan]

No Alex Lopez is not a player in the draft. Surprised his name is in the article. He would cost a pretty penny. Also forget to mention that the Houston Dynamo is also interested in Lopez. This is because of Honduran Oscar Boneik Garcia.

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

http://www.mlssoccer.com/blog/post/2012/12/30/rumor-central-honduran-youngster-alex-lopez-headed-mlsMLS could sign a foreign player and have him available for the draft, as they have in past two years

[moralis]

We should wait until TFC makes it official, however it is official according to the that's transferring Arnold Peralta to TFC:

https://twitter.com/cdsvida

http://www.facebook.com/cdsvida/posts/488138717899368

http://www.facebook.com/cdsvida/posts/485287254851181

[jloome]

MLS could sign a foreign player and have him available for the draft, as they have in past two years

This might also explain Peralta, as GMs like to sign foreign players in pairs, so that they have someone to help them adjust and whom they can talk to if their English is poor.

[ArmenJBX]

It's an official signing but the TFC front office don't get back until January 7, so that's probably when we'll hear the signing on their website.

[West220Side]

If Lopez would indeed cost 'a pretty penny' and him and Peralta matched up in the centre, CDM & CAM. That would spell the end of Mr. Torsten Frings unless...


--------GK--------
-RB--CB--CB--LB
--------Frings------
Peralta-Lopez-LM--
-----ST-----ST----


------GK---------
Peralta-CB-CB-LB-
------Frings-------
RM---Lopez----LM
----ST-----ST----

[Yohan]

does anyone know how many international spots TFC has open?

[ag futbol]

If Lopez would indeed cost 'a pretty penny' and him and Peralta matched up in the centre, CDM & CAM. That would spell the end of Mr. Torsten Frings unless...
This guy looks massively impressive. I think it's time we called in MLS for a little wink-wink nudge-nudge treatment.


does anyone know how many international spots TFC has open?
Was thinking the same thing. Hope we've got some space, otherwise Reggie Lambe looks like he has a big bulls-eye on his back.


It's an official signing but the TFC front office don't get back until January 7, so that's probably when we'll hear the signing on their website.
As soon as Earl can find the paperwork in the fax machine this thing is going through. Let's hope this doesn't turn out like the Dero loan to celtic :S

[gdg_9]

This Lopez kid sounds like he could be a pretty stellar pickup! Only 20 years old and already an impressive stat line!

Hopefully Gueverra & Payne can work their magic down there in Honduras to get it done!


Curious for more info tho... would it be a straight signing? And if so, do we have enough allocation cash? Would we trade one of our picks for the necessary Allocation $?

Or would he sign with MLS first and go into the draft allowing us to select him? (seems to be confusion around this)

[West220Side]

This Lopez thing seems like a rumor at the moment, with Peralta holding a bit more strength as a 'definite signing' as for the international spots we have only a few international players.

Frings (Germany)
O'dea (Ireland)
Lambe (Bermuda)
Koevermans (Netherlands)

Then I think players like Frei (Switzerland) and Hassli (France) have greencards or something like that and don't count as an international. No? either way every team has eight international spots. So for lets pretend all of our players from other countries count (6) that leaves us with two more spots (minimum).

On another topic, looks like with a few playing acquired through the draft either two youngsters or trading, etc we'll have a fairly decent squad come preseason. Hell, if additions keep looking this bright, I dare say the only thing jamming us up could be Mariner, wouldn't mind Rongen taking his spot anytime now. Everything would move a lot smoother. I also like this Guevara in the scouting system, Dichio in the academy, and Brennan always floating around. Good to keep the old boys around, no? Can't be bad for club morale.

Does anybody know how Carl Robinson is doing with the Vancouver Whitecaps? (Sorry, I know its a bit off topic)

Edit: According to Wikipedia we have eight international spots, and they're all being occupied by: Eckersley (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_Eckersley_(footballer)), Frings (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torsten_Frings), F. Hall (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freddy_Hall), Hassli (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eric_Hassli), Koevermans (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Danny_Koevermans), Lambe (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reggie_Lambe), O'Dea (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Darren_O'Dea),Plata (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joao_Plata). But Freddy Hall is no longer on our roster so that leaves us with one spot open (taken by Peralta if he's signed) looks like we're a bit jammed up. I say: Ditch Frings.

[Yohan]

This Lopez thing seems like a rumor at the moment, with Peralta holding a bit more strength as a 'definite signing' as for the international spots we have only a few international players.

Frings (Germany)
O'dea (Ireland)
Lambe (Bermuda)
Koevermans (Netherlands)

Then I think players like Frei (Switzerland) and Hassli (France) have greencards or something like that and don't count as an international. No? either way every team has eight international spots. So for lets pretend all of our players from other countries count (6) that leaves us with two more spots (minimum).

On another topic, looks like with a few playing acquired through the draft either two youngsters or trading, etc we'll have a fairly decent squad come preseason. Hell, if additions keep looking this bright, I dare say the only thing jamming us up could be Mariner, wouldn't mind Rongen taking his spot anytime now. Everything would move a lot smoother. I also like this Guevara in the scouting system, Dichio in the academy, and Brennan always floating around. Good to keep the old boys around, no? Can't be bad for club morale.

Does anybody know how Carl Robinson is doing with the Vancouver Whitecaps? (Sorry, I know its a bit off topic)

Edit: According to Wikipedia we have eight international spots, and they're all being occupied by: Eckersley (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_Eckersley_(footballer)), Frings (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torsten_Frings), F. Hall (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freddy_Hall), Hassli (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eric_Hassli), Koevermans (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Danny_Koevermans), Lambe (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reggie_Lambe), O'Dea (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Darren_O'Dea),Plata (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joao_Plata). But Freddy Hall is no longer on our roster so that leaves us with one spot open (taken by Peralta if he's signed) looks like we're a bit jammed up. I say: Ditch Frings.

By my count
Eckersley
Frings
Hassli (he really should try to get a permanent residency card)
Koevermans
Lambe
O'Dea
Plata

Plus I think TFC has couple of int spots from trades

[Yohan]

Does anybody know how Carl Robinson is doing with the Vancouver Whitecaps? (Sorry, I know its a bit off topic)


He's #2 man at Whitecaps behind Rennie. Doing quite well. Apparently has UEFA A coaching badge and working on his Pro badge now

[KGH]

By my count
Eckersley
Frings
Hassli (he really should try to get a permanent residency card)
Koevermans
Lambe
O'Dea
Plata

Plus I think TFC has couple of int spots from trades

we had 2 additional spots but one expired at the end of 2012 and the other we gave to van in the Hassli trade. Right now we have 8.

[Morlesio14]

This Lopez kid sounds extremely tempting. Would be amazing to get him. We need to free up some international spots.

[TFC07]

Keeping Hassli when we had a chance to get rid of him is hurting us right now. Thanks Mariner!

[Stress]

I could deal without Plata and/or Lambe if it meant opening a spot for this kid Lopez. If this is the same guy, looks like he'll fit right in with our hoof ball style:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WJv7LVidMds


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=htvjLbX8b8g

[Ivy]

What a blast... My goodness.

[Yohan]

This Lopez kid sounds extremely tempting. Would be amazing to get him. We need to free up some international spots.

I dunno. I think I wouldn't mind taking this kid as 3rd 'young' DP. only 150k hit on the cap incl transfer fee

[mowe]

I dunno. I think I wouldn't mind taking this kid as 3rd 'young' DP. only 150k hit on the cap incl transfer fee

Much better use of the DP slot than Hassli or Frings. Why did we pick up Hassli's option again?

[Yohan]

Much better use of the DP slot than Hassli or Frings. Why did we pick up Hassli's option again?

because hassli scored 3 goals in 7 games for TFC

[Morlesio14]

If Toronto fc are planning to sign him in the near future, they must have either planned to make room for an international spot, or are going to sign him to a dp contract. Personally I'd like the first choice.

[Yohan]

If Toronto fc are planning to sign him in the near future, they must have either planned to make room for an international spot, or are going to sign him to a dp contract. Personally I'd like the first choice.
you still need an international spot if you sign an international player to a DP contract

[razor787]

WOW! I watched the first video and although it was an incredible goal, my immediate thoughts however were 'anyone can get lucky'

After watching the second video, it looks as if this guy would be our go-to guy for free kicks. I hope we get him!

[Morlesio14]

you still need an international spot if you sign an international player to a DP contract

Oh, ok thanks for the clarification. Like I said, we must try and create room.

[SKB]

[QUOTE=Stress;1549662]I could deal without Plata and/or Lambe if it meant opening a spot for this kid Lopez. If this is the same guy, looks like he'll fit right in with our hoof ball style:

I would not be against dropping Lambe. While he has good individual skills, his lack of vision and passing takes all the movement out of our attack. Plata is an unknown really.

[Yohan]

Both Lambe and Plata are one dimensional players, however, they are still 21 and 20 right now. Still got some time to learn some football intelligence

[West220Side]

So wait let me get this straight our FO doesn't come back into operation until seven days into the January transfer window? (January 7th)

[Yohan]

So wait let me get this straight our FO doesn't come back into operation until seven days into the January transfer window? (January 7th)

MLS transfer window 2012

The registration windows – the dates between which MLS may request the transfer certificate of a player under contract in another country – are as follows:


January 21 – April 15 (Primary Window)
June 27 – July 27 (Secondary Window)

[ArmenJBX]

Toronto FC confirm their interest in Alex Lopez http://www.latribuna.hn/2013/01/02/toronto-fc-confirma-interes-en-lopez/

[tfcmanu]

Toronto FC confirms interest in Lopez
Deportes (http://translate.googleusercontent.com/translate_c?depth=1&hl=en&ie=UTF8&prev=_t&rurl=translate.google.ca&sl=es&tl=en&u=http://www.latribuna.hn/category/deportes/&usg=ALkJrhi_AMRjoO_QGaJb6RQflQxIlifSUQ) 2 enero, 2013 - 1:51 PM Sports (http://translate.googleusercontent.com/translate_c?depth=1&hl=en&ie=UTF8&prev=_t&rurl=translate.google.ca&sl=es&tl=en&u=http://www.latribuna.hn/category/deportes/&usg=ALkJrhi_AMRjoO_QGaJb6RQflQxIlifSUQ) January 2, 2013 - 1:51 PM


11281552 Para (http://translate.googleusercontent.com/translate_c?depth=1&hl=en&ie=UTF8&prev=_t&rurl=translate.google.ca&sl=es&tl=en&u=http://www.latribuna.hn/2013/01/02/toronto-fc-confirma-interes-en-lopez/&usg=ALkJrhgthL7OJ2Y0Ns8e9hoXVG8iKKQmSQ#respond) 11281552 To (http://translate.googleusercontent.com/translate_c?depth=1&hl=en&ie=UTF8&prev=_t&rurl=translate.google.ca&sl=es&tl=en&u=http://www.latribuna.hn/2013/01/02/toronto-fc-confirma-interes-en-lopez/&usg=ALkJrhgthL7OJ2Y0Ns8e9hoXVG8iKKQmSQ#respond) http://cdn.latribuna.hn/wp-content/plugins/wp-text-sizer/img/small.jpg (javascript:ts('content', -1)) http://cdn.latribuna.hn/wp-content/plugins/wp-text-sizer/img/large.jpg (javascript:ts('content', 1))




Redacción deportes.- El propio gerente general de Toronto FC, Kevin Payne, confirmó este miércoles el interés que tiene el club canadiense, que participa en la MLS, en contratar al mediocampista hondureño Alexander López. Writing sports. - CEO himself Toronto FC, Kevin Payne, confirmed Wednesday the interest of the Canadian club, which participates in the MLS, in hiring the Honduran midfielder Alexander Lopez.

Tenemos una lista de jugadores a los que intentaremos fichar durante el Súper Draft. We have a list of players who will try to sign during the Super Draft.
Donde aparecen nombres de jóvenes promesas que ya son seleccionados en su país (López y Arnold Peralta)”, declaró Payne. Where are promising young names that are already selected in your country (Lopez and Arnold Peralta), "said Payne.
http://cdn.latribuna.hn/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/alex.jpg
Alexander López Alexander Lopez


En la página oficial del equipo canadiense, Torontofc.ca, además del nombre de los catrachos, aparecen como posibles opciones a contratar: Andrew Farrell, José Gómez y Mikey López. On the official website of the Canadian team, Torontofc.ca and the name of the Hondurans, appear as possible options to hire: Andrew Farrell, Mikey Gomez and Jose Lopez.

De momento Olimpia ni López se han pronunciado sobre su posible paso a la Major League Soccer (MLS), pero en los próximos días se estaría oficializando o descartando su salto al balompié extranjero. For now Olimpia and Lopez have spoken about a possible move to Major League Soccer (MLS), but in the coming days will be formalizing or discarding your jump to football abroad.

Mientras que Vida y Toronto FC ya llegaron a acuerdo por Peralta, solo falta que el equipo canadiense arregle con el jugador, para que él estampe su firma. While Toronto FC Life and agreement reached and Peralta, just need to fix the Canadian team with the player, so he affixed his signature.

Toronto FC confirm their interest in Alex Lopez http://www.latribuna.hn/2013/01/02/toronto-fc-confirma-interes-en-lopez/

[Detroit_TFC]

I like that we are getting a piece of this Honduran fire sale. Alex Lopez would have to be a DP signing though, which means somebody's got to go. Frings buyout maybe? Wish we could have both of them in 2013 somehow, that would be a great starting AM transition.

I assume there will be some salary shenanigans to keep him under DP status in 2013, we'll probably deal for a int'l slot. He would take TF's DP slot in 2014.

[flamehawk]

I like that we are getting a piece of this Honduran fire sale. Alex Lopez would have to be a DP signing though, which means somebody's got to go. Frings buyout maybe? Wish we could have both of them in 2013 somehow, that would be a great starting AM transition.

I assume there will be some salary shenanigans to keep him under DP status in 2013, we'll probably deal for a int'l slot. He would take TF's DP slot in 2014.

Well, I remember the last time we tried something like that :/

That said, I think Payne is a little more trustworthy than Mo. I just hope for Lopez's sake, its all on paper.

[ManUtd4ever]

Both Lambe and Plata are one dimensional players, however, they are still 21 and 20 right now. Still got some time to learn some football intelligence

Agreed.

On a playoff team, guys like Plata and Lambe are ideal late game subs on the wings. The fact that they are currently our best wingers is a testament to our lack of depth in that department. Amarikwa and Wiedeman don't cut it as starters either.

[SKB]

The whole story around Frings is a mystery to me. He left for home very abruptly. It was right after the game when PM through him under the bus for diving in defensively. Then it comes out that his hip is injured. I assume PM would have known he was injured, so why publicly call him out? Frings is a proud player and played at the highest levels on winning teams. Who said Frings wants to come back? I have not heard that Frings has directly said he wants to come back. I have only heard PM say that which may be a bit dubious. Maybe Frings is looking at his options. So we may have 1 DP position open and Lopez fits the right age bracket that Payne is looking for. Maybe others have a more definitive idea of what is happening with Frings?

[SKB]

Agreed.

On a playoff team, guys like Plata and Lambe are ideal late game subs on the wings. The fact that they are currently our best wingers is a testament to our lack of depth in that department. Amarikwa and Wiedeman don't cut it as starters either.

Do not disagree with you at all, some good points raised. However, we are still short of 2 or 3 midfielder starters for this coming season and we may have to give up one of our ideal depth players to get the starters we need. Also in the MLS structure can we afford to tie up international positions as depth players or do those need to go to domestic players where we have more flexibility.

[Joe Kool]

The whole story around Frings is a mystery to me. He left for home very abruptly. It was right after the game when PM through him under the bus for diving in defensively. Then it comes out that his hip is injured. I assume PM would have known he was injured, so why publicly call him out? Frings is a proud player and played at the highest levels on winning teams. Who said Frings wants to come back? I have not heard that Frings has directly said he wants to come back. I have only heard PM say that which may be a bit dubious. Maybe Frings is looking at his options. So we may have 1 DP position open and Lopez fits the right age bracket that Payne is looking for. Maybe others have a more definitive idea of what is happening with Frings?

Mariner calling anybody on the team out in public is bad form IMO no matter what the circumstance.

To answer your other point Frings spoke at the end of the season party and said that he wants to and plans to come back and give us a better season in 2013. I don't recall his exact words but that is what he essentially said. Now whether he was just appeasing the crowd or not who knows but he did in fact say it himself that he wants to come back. I am sure he is always looking at his options though as well just like anyone would.

[A Stick]

I find it really strange that Mariner has not been in contact with our new CB that we picked up in the lottery a few weeks ago. You would think he would contact him and say welcome aboard, but that makes sense.

[Ivy]

I find it really strange that Mariner has not been in contact with our new CB that we picked up in the lottery a few weeks ago. You would think he would contact him and say welcome aboard, but that makes sense.

There hasn't been anything from any of the new acquisitions that I've seen. Califf had a little interview with Larson, and Braun told TFC how he started in MLS... I think that's it.

[prizby]

LOL.

Although it's the Honduran league, his career numbers are staggering, and he's only 20 years old...

58 appearances (league/CCL), 22 goals, 37 assists

(off wikipedia) "He also provided 3 goals and 2 assists in Olimpia's 2012-13 CONCACAF Champions League campaign...";

now look up the CCL games this past year and find how many times he scored a goal...he only played in one of the four CCL games, he started, played 70 minutes and Olimpia's only goal scored when he was on the pitch was from a FK (scored by someone else)...so, I smell bullshit on all these stats

[TFC07]

It could be possible that TFC will trade their first round pick for international slot and huge amount of allocation money so they can sign Lopez.

[kuku]

From Steve Goff's twitter:

Steven Goff ‏@SoccerInsider Brit tabloid report that QPR's Ryan Nelsen is joining D.C. United coaching staff is "100 percent" not true, Ben Olsen says #dcu (http://redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23dcu&src=hash)#mls (http://redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23mls&src=hash)

Steven Goff ‏@SoccerInsiderDon't be surprised if Ryan Nelsen ends up at Toronto FC. Kevin Payne loves Nellie. #tfc (http://redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23tfc&src=hash) #mls (http://redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23mls&src=hash)

[Joe Kool]

From Steve Goff's twitter:

Steven Goff ‏@SoccerInsiderBrit tabloid report that QPR's Ryan Nelsen is joining D.C. United coaching staff is "100 percent" not true, Ben Olsen says #dcu (http://redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23dcu&src=hash)#mls (http://redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23mls&src=hash)

Steven Goff ‏@SoccerInsiderDon't be surprised if Ryan Nelsen ends up at Toronto FC. Kevin Payne loves Nellie. #tfc (http://redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23tfc&src=hash) #mls (http://redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23mls&src=hash)

http://prosoccertalk.nbcsports.com/2013/01/04/former-d-c-united-captain-ryan-nelsen-apparently-returning-to-mls-but-as-a-coach/

"More likely, however, is that Nelsen would begin his coaching days as an assistant, perhaps to Paul Mariner at Toronto. There, he could be groomed as an eventual replacement, allowing Mariner to return to the front office position he held prior to replacing failed Dutch coach Aron Winter."

[Yohan]

Ryan Nelsen > Danny Califf as short term CB. just saying. make Nelsen a player/coach for one year, with full time assistant coach job next season

[gdg_9]

Ryan Nelsen > Danny Califf as short term CB. just saying. make Nelsen a player/coach for one year, with full time assistant coach job next season

I would agree with this, but after already signing Califf that ship has already sailed, no?

Dropping Califf to #3 CB means dropping one of Henry or Boss to #5 CB - not ideal.



I still think Nelson would be a great addition even solely as a coach.
He could work closely with Henry & Boss (as well as O'Dea), improving the future of our backline.


EDIT: If Califf (or O'Dea) pick up a long-term injury (knock on wood) could we then convert Nelson from Ass. Coach to Player/Coach role?
Might be good insurance for an aging Califf.

[Yohan]

I would agree with this, but after already signing Califf that ship has already sailed, no?

Dropping Califf to #3 CB means dropping one of Henry or Boss to #5 CB - not ideal.
Henry can continue his development at RB as back up for Ecks. Push Hall to back up LB/DM.

I'm not opposed to Henry and/or Boss going on loan. I think Henry would be a good fit for Edmonton. And for Boss? I'm sure he'd love to play at Rochester, his hometown.




I still think Nelson would be a great addition even solely as a coach.
He could work closely with Henry & Boss (as well as O'Dea), improving the future of our backline.


EDIT: If Califf (or O'Dea) pick up a long-term injury (knock on wood) could we then convert Nelson from Ass. Coach to Player/Coach role?
Might be good insurance for an aging Califf.
I don't disagree.

And Onstad came out of retirement for few games to be back up GK for DC last season

[ManUtd4ever]

It seems awkward to be discussing a surplus of quality CBs on a TFC roster.

[West220Side]

God it just keeps getting better Nelsen coming on as a player-coach & possibly a full time experienced coach in the future. That would 100% shore up our defense for the season, then we could focus on midfield and forward problems. Which are already starting to be addressed with the draft & Peralta/Lopez. Can't wait for Montreal as it is. I'm trying not to get excited.

[Detroit_TFC]

I'm having trouble seeing how the roster cap math can possibly work to do all these things.

[Canary10]

Shows how much MLS rosters are built on a wing and a prayer. Here we are picking up centre halves, possibly drafting centre halves, etc, and all planning all of a sudden goes out the window when the possibility of a EPL quality centre half becomes unavailable. Nature of the league I think.

[tfcmanu]

Steven Goff ‏@SoccerInsider Lot of moving parts in the Ryan Nelsen situation, I'm told, and Toronto FC in the running #tfc (http://www.redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23tfc&src=hash) #mls (http://www.redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23mls&src=hash)

Steven Goff ‏@SoccerInsider IF it happens, guessing player/coach (Payne did it for Wolff) RT @jimmyconrad (http://www.redpatchboys.ca/JimmyConrad): Is Nelsen coming back to MLS to play, coach or player-coach?

[West220Side]

Our possible roster of defensemen for 2013 could be: Doneil Henry, Logan (woops) Emory, Danny Califf, Ryan Nelsen, Ashtone Morgan, Richard Eckersley, Gale Agbossoumonde, Darren O'Dea.

Can we shop Jeremy Hall around now? I don't see him being required.

[Yohan]

God it just keeps getting better Nelsen coming on as a player-coach & possibly a full time experienced coach in the future. That would 100% shore up our defense for the season, then we could focus on midfield and forward problems. Which are already starting to be addressed with the draft & Peralta/Lopez. Can't wait for Montreal as it is. I'm trying not to get excited.

having Nelsen as a player would have same effect as Nesta did for Mtl. quality positioning and organization of defence, but gets overrun by speed and having teammates being caught in a counter attack

[ManUtd4ever]

Our possible roster of defensemen for 2013 could be: Doneil Henry, Logan Emory, Danny Califf, Ryan Nelsen, Ashtone Morgan, Richard Eckersley, Gale Agbossoumonde, Darren O'Dea.

Can we shop Jeremy Hall around now? I don't see him being required.

FYP. g:D

On paper, even without Nelsen, it does seem to be the most competent group of defenders we've ever had. The only question is whether or not they can develop the right chemistry on the pitch.

[Yohan]

FYP. g:D

On paper, even without Nelsen, it does seem to be the most competent group of defenders we've ever had. The only question is whether or not they can develop the right chemistry on the pitch.well, I'd like to fuse a couple of them... like O'Dea with Boss's speed lol

[ArmenJBX]

According to my source, Ryan Nelson is, indeed, coming to Toronto FC, due to the Kevin Payne link.

[Lucky Strike]

Steven Goff ‏@SoccerInsider Lot of moving parts in the Ryan Nelsen situation, I'm told, and Toronto FC in the running #tfc (http://www.redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23tfc&src=hash) #mls (http://www.redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23mls&src=hash)


Puts more intrigue on the situation... Suggests additional moves for TFC?

[andmat]

According to my source, Ryan Nelson is, indeed, coming to Toronto FC, due to the Kevin Payne link.
How can we sign any International players with no spot's available, I do not even know if there's a slot for Arnold Peralta.







Stefan Frei 26 6' 3" 195 Switzerland
Torsten Frings 36 5' 11" 170 Germany
Richard Eckersley 23 6' 169 England
Eric Hassli 31 6' 4" 200 France
Danny Koevermans 34 6' 3" 175 Netherlands
Reggie Lambe 21 5' 7" 151 Bermuda
Joao Plata 20 5' 2" 135 Ecuador
Darren O'Dea 25 6' 1" 180 Ireland

[andmat]

And O'dea is an OVERATED player who takes up 400k. and an INT spot.

[Oldtimer]

How can we sign any International players with no spot's available, I do not even know if there's a slot for Arnold Peralta.







I think we still have one additional spot due to a past trade.

[Yohan]

And O'dea is an OVERATED player who takes up 400k. and an INT spot.
Jesus probably couldn't fix TFC defence last season under Mariner, let alone O'Dea

[andmat]

I think we still have one additional spot due to a past trade.

Let say we have one Then it For Arnold Peralta that's 9 spot's Not sure if any player has a green card, so still Full

[Ageroo]

I thought Frei has his Green Card?

[Yohan]

How can we sign any International players with no spot's available, I do not even know if there's a slot for Arnold Peralta.






Stefan Frei 26 6' 3" 195 Switzerland
Torsten Frings 36 5' 11" 170 Germany
Richard Eckersley 23 6' 169 England
Eric Hassli 31 6' 4" 200 France
Danny Koevermans 34 6' 3" 175 Netherlands
Reggie Lambe 21 5' 7" 151 Bermuda
Joao Plata 20 5' 2" 135 Ecuador
Darren O'Dea 25 6' 1" 180 Ireland
If TFC FO isn't working on getting a permanent residency card for Frei and Hassli, if they don't have one already, I'd be surprised

[arsenal]

How can we sign any International players with no spot's available, I do not even know if there's a slot for Arnold Peralta.









Pretty good chance Nelson has green card given he went to university in US and was with DC for awhile.

[ManUtd4ever]

And O'dea is an OVERATED player who takes up 400k. and an INT spot.

O'Dea's salary is 400k but his cap hit is actually 330K. It's still 100K too much for a quality starting CB in MLS, but I also think he is capable of playing at a higher level than that which he displayed in a limited sample size of games last season while the club was in a death spiral.

[andmat]

So fry has a green card? and Hassli might have one, so that 7 spots we got available Includeing Arnold 8 if Hassli does not have a green card.

[ManUtd4ever]

If TFC FO isn't working on getting a permanent residency card for Frei and Hassli, if they don't have one already, I'd be surprised

Exactly. Not to mention that one or more of our current international players might be traded/released/bought out. When all the dust settles, I'm confident Payne will ensure roster compliance by opening day to accomodate any additional international signings.

[Morlesio14]

I think O'dea will more more worth of his money after he gets a full offseason training. Would nelson come back to coach here or as a player?

[andmat]

Does anyone know if Eric Hassli wife Canadian? If so he should have a green card

[ArmenJBX]

He's not coming here as a player.

He's coming here as a second coach, or perhaps a player coach. All I know is, he's coming to Toronto FC to work with Mariner in some capacity.

[Ageroo]

I asked Frei on twitter if he is a domestic. ..he got back to me just now. He has a green card.....debate ended.... :)

[A Stick]

Hassli's wife is American. I can't see Mariner lasting too long if Nelson is coming on board. Regarding Nelson, he looks too slow for the Premiership this season but you can't deny his effort, heart and leadership skills on the field.

[Shway]

How can we sign any International players with no spot's available, I do not even know if there's a slot for Arnold Peralta
Stefan Frei 26 6' 3" 195 Switzerland
Torsten Frings 36 5' 11" 170 Germany
Richard Eckersley 23 6' 169 England
Eric Hassli 31 6' 4" 200 France
Danny Koevermans 34 6' 3" 175 Netherlands
Reggie Lambe 21 5' 7" 151 Bermuda
Joao Plata 20 5' 2" 135 Ecuador
Darren O'Dea 25 6' 1" 180 Ireland

On this note, I think MLS should tweak the international rules to if a player is signed out of College than they should be an exception, because they are a product of the american system, which would exclude players like Frei.

[ManUtd4ever]

I asked Frei on twitter if he is a domestic. ..he got back to me just now. He has a green card.....debate ended.... :)

LOL, gotta love teh interwebs...

[andmat]

Hassli's wife is American. I can't see Mariner lasting too long if Nelson is coming on board. Regarding Nelson, he looks too slow for the Premiership this season but you can't deny his effort, heart and leadership skills on the field.

So Hassli has a green card(Got Maried in Vegas to some American), and so does fry, So right now we got 6 International players on current Roster 7 with Arnold Peralta.
Torsten Frings 36 5' 11" 170 Germany
Richard Eckersley 23 6' 169 England
Danny Koevermans 34 6' 3" 175 Netherlands
Reggie Lambe 21 5' 7" 151 Bermuda
Joao Plata 20 5' 2" 135 Ecuador
Darren O'Dea 25 6' 1" 180 Ireland
Arnold Peralta Honduras

So we got 1 International spot Available, No one knows for sure if we got 1 extra International spot from a trade.

[DangerRed]

He's not coming here as a player.

He's coming here as a second coach, or perhaps a player coach. All I know is, he's coming to Toronto FC to work with Mariner in some capacity.

Fuck me, player-coach? A 35-year-old defender? I sure as shit hope not. Even Frings admitted in his recent German interview that the guys over here are fast and can run like racehorses. What does an over-the-hill defender hope to accomplish? He has depth in MLS from his previous time at DCU, but I'd much prefer him to stay on the sidelines as a defensive coach or somesuch, rather than suiting up in kit and getting burned by younger attackers.

[David_Oliveira]

Oh. So Nelsen is not coming in as a head coach. I posted in another thread that I thought he would make for a poor addition as a head coach but since he is not, I'd be a lot happier to have him on. He would make an excellent assistant coach. His mls and premier league experience would help out the young guys tremendously.

[Ageroo]

LOL, gotta love teh interwebs...

I am just surprised no one on here thought of it sooner.....Frei is pretty good about responding to people.

[Oldtimer]

So we got 1 International spot Available, No one knows for sure if we got 1 extra International spot from a trade.

Why do you say that?

TFC has 1 additional spot from San Jose that's good through 2013.

Source:

http://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/?id=3681370

[reggie]

did we not give up a intl spot has part of the E H trade with VAN?

[razor787]

People were up in arms in the past when the Dichio/Brennan were picked by the club to be Assistant Coach rather than have the coach pick his own assistant. Why is it that this time people are excited about it?

I don't think Mariner is the right coach, and that we will be getting a new one eventually. Bringing in an assistant now would mean we will stick the next coach with him - the same thing people were up in arms with before.

[KGH]

Why do you say that?

TFC has 1 additional spot from San Jose that's good through 2013.

Source:

http://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/?id=3681370



http://www.torontofc.ca/news/2012/07/toronto-acquires-eric-hassli

Toronto FC announced Friday that the club has acquired forward Eric Hassli from Vancouver Whitecaps FC in exchange for Toronto’s first round pick in the 2014 MLS SuperDraft along with an international roster spot through the 2013 season. Hassli will be considered a Designated Player and occupy an International Roster spot.

[reggie]

jus goes to show you how stupid the COCH AND THE CLOWN are,what a horrible trade...

[Canary10]

^ Yeah, that's very bad player management.

[Red I]

http://www.torontofc.ca/news/2012/07/toronto-acquires-eric-hassli

Toronto FC announced Friday that the club has acquired forward Eric Hassli from Vancouver Whitecaps FC in exchange for Toronto’s first round pick in the 2014 MLS SuperDraft along with an international roster spot through the 2013 season. Hassli will be considered a Designated Player and occupy an International Roster spot.

Seriously?!?!?... Cochrane and Mariner are the absolute worst

[Oldtimer]

http://www.torontofc.ca/news/2012/07/toronto-acquires-eric-hassli

Toronto FC announced Friday that the club has acquired forward Eric Hassli from Vancouver Whitecaps FC in exchange for Toronto’s first round pick in the 2014 MLS SuperDraft along with an international roster spot through the 2013 season. Hassli will be considered a Designated Player and occupy an International Roster spot.

Forgot about that trade :facepalm:

Mariner and Cochrane are absolute poor when it comes to trades.

So we have 8 spots. Hopefully they traded the spot ending this year, but knowing them they traded one of our other spots, hampering us for years to come.

[Oldtimer]

People were up in arms in the past when the Dichio/Brennan were picked by the club to be Assistant Coach rather than have the coach pick his own assistant. Why is it that this time people are excited about it?



It's only good if Mariner is heading out the door... or being kicked upstairs...

[Ageroo]

It's only good if Mariner is heading out the door... or being kicked upstairs...

To heaven? You shouldn't be wishing that on anyone...... ;)

[razor787]

It's only good if Mariner is heading out the door... or being kicked upstairs...

Thats the thing. Mariner gets the boot, and the new coach has already got his AC picked for him. Or, Nelson gets moved to head coach, and we are again going with the wrong coach. Both scenarios are mistakes we have made in the past. Why not leave things until we have a head coach, and see if he wants to work with Nelson, instead of insisting.

[Oldtimer]

Thats the thing. Mariner gets the boot, and the new coach has already got his AC picked for him. Or, Nelson gets moved to head coach, and we are again going with the wrong coach. Both scenarios are mistakes we have made in the past. Why not leave things until we have a head coach, and see if he wants to work with Nelson, instead of insisting.

What if Nelson is the new head coach, after a year of training?

[oxygenatedbrain]

Forgot about that trade :facepalm:

So we have 8 spots. Hopefully they traded the spot ending this year, but knowing them they traded one of our other spots, hampering us for years to come.

KGH is categorically wrong, though. We acquired a spot through 2013 from SJ in the Johnson/Gordon trade, but we still have another from SJ through 2013 through the Huckerby trade, long before most here were fans...

[razor787]

What if Nelson is the new head coach, after a year of training?

Then like I said, we would be making a mistake by not hiring an experienced coach. We need a coach who already has experience, and can step in right away. Not someone who needs a year of training before stepping into his first coaching job.

[Oldtimer]

KGH is categorically wrong, though. We acquired a spot through 2013 from SJ in the Johnson/Gordon trade, but we still have another from SJ through 2013 through the Huckerby trade, long before most here were fans...

So we have 9 spots...

[TFC07]

Why not just get it over with and fire Mariner now. Even though I am not fan of Mariner, he should decide who should be in his coaching staff who he feels comfortable working with. Your boss hiring someone who's eventually going to replace you isn't good for you and will create a bad environment in the club. I highly doubt there's room for Mariner in the front office. So what's point of keeping Mariner now?

[Yohan]

Why not just get it over with and fire Mariner now. Even though I am not fan of Mariner, he should decide who should be in his coaching staff who he feels comfortable working with. Your boss hiring someone who's eventually going to replace you isn't good for you and will create a bad environment in the club. I highly doubt there's room for Mariner in the front office. So what's point of keeping Mariner now?

for all we know, it could be Mariner asking for Nelsen

[TFC07]

for all we know, it could be Mariner asking for Nelsen I highly doubt. According to sources posted here, this is Payne's man.

[Yohan]

I highly doubt. According to sources posted here, this is Payne's man.

KP: Hey Paul. I think I can get Ryan Nelsen to join the staff as coach. Interested?
PM: Ok. I'd be cool with that, Kevin.
KP: I'll see what I can do.

Hypothetically, of course.

[Oldtimer]

Armen gets the scoop on Nelsen (in the blogs thread):

http://redpatchboys.ca/forums/showthread.php?29582-TFC-MLS-blogs-thread/page34

He's replacing Jimmy Brennan. Looks like Payne is starting to clean house.

[TFC07]

KP: Hey Paul. I think I can get Ryan Nelsen to join the staff as coach. Interested?
PM: Ok. I'd be cool with that, Kevin.
KP: I'll see what I can do.

Hypothetically, of course. You're forgetting Nelsen (according to sources posted here) is eventually going to become a head coach down the line. So why would PM agree to that knowing he's going to be replace by Nelsen? Also, isn't Rongen going to be more involved with first team as well?

[TFC07]

Armen gets the scoop on Nelsen (in the blogs thread):

http://redpatchboys.ca/forums/showthread.php?29582-TFC-MLS-blogs-thread/page34

He's replacing Jimmy Brennan. Looks like Payne is starting to clean house.

Brennan is Mariner's guy, right? lol Mariner loses his players and now his friend in coaching staff? Brings back to my point, what's the point of keeping Mariner as a head coach?

[Canary10]

People are forgetting that Mariner has surrounded himself with decent assistants in past jobs. One of his first moves at Plymouth was to hire John Carver as an assistant. I think he prefers being in charge, but it doesn't mean he won't hire strong minded assistants to work with him. With Nelsen, seems clear this is initiated by Payne given their past relationship, but that doesn't mean Payne didn't run it by Mariner, or that Mariner opposes it.

[tfcmanu]

Maybe Rongen reccomended Nelsen, Knowing he (Rongen) will be head coach in the near future. g:D

[KGH]

KGH is categorically wrong, though. We acquired a spot through 2013 from SJ in the Johnson/Gordon trade, but we still have another from SJ through 2013 through the Huckerby trade, long before most here were fans...

How can I be categorically wrong? I just pasted the link showing that we traded away the spot.

But speaking of being wrong...

The spot that we traded for with SJ in the Johnson/Gordon trade expired about 3 days ago. So net of all the moves we're at 8.

[Oldtimer]

Brennan is Mariner's guy, right? lol Mariner loses his players and now his friend in coaching staff? Brings back to my point, what's the point of keeping Mariner as a head coach?

Brennan is Mo Johnston's guy. Mariner was stuck with him.

[Oldtimer]

But speaking of being wrong...

The spot that we traded for with SJ in the Johnson/Gordon trade expired about 3 days ago. So net of all the moves we're at 8.

But maybe that's the spot that was traded away! So maybe andmat is right after all.... nobody knows for sure whether we have 8 or 9 spots.

[spark]

People are forgetting that Mariner has surrounded himself with decent assistants in past jobs. One of his first moves at Plymouth was to hire John Carver as an assistant. I think he prefers being in charge, but it doesn't mean he won't hire strong minded assistants to work with him. With Nelsen, seems clear this is initiated by Payne given their past relationship, but that doesn't mean Payne didn't run it by Mariner, or that Mariner opposes it.

? He has only had one past job as head coach - so in fact it is decent assistant. Hardly a large sample to come to a conclusion it is a pattern or mandate.

[Canary10]

? He has only had one past job as head coach - so in fact it is decent assistant. Hardly a large sample to come to a conclusion it is a pattern or mandate.

Maybe, but from my experience there are people who hire stupid people under them and people who hire smart people who can challenge them under them. The fact that he went the latter route in his one job is a good sign that he's the kind who will hire smart.

[__wowza]

You're forgetting Nelsen (according to sources posted here) is eventually going to become a head coach down the line. So why would PM agree to that knowing he's going to be replace by Nelsen?

PM is in a three year deal, what's he have to be worried about?

[Wooster_TFC]

People seemed to forget that Mariner seemed quite happy to be offering Heath the head coach's job "in the future". So, it seems like Mariner doesn't want to be head coach long term.

[oxygenatedbrain]

How can I be categorically wrong? I just pasted the link showing that we traded away the spot.

But speaking of being wrong...

My heartfelt apologies, but I've got bigger worries...Here's me, just 13 months ago, answering your question about roster slots: "We still have two of SJs spots: the one acquired last season (until 1/1/13,according to SJ watchers), and one from the Huckerby trade through next year..." Not a good sign, cognitively speaking...

[TFC07]

PM is in a three year deal, what's he have to be worried about? Winter was signed for 3 years, but he only lasted just over a year. So length of Mariner's contract doesn't mean anything. Mariner doesn't produce this season, he's gone. Given how Payne is bringing HIS type of players and now coaching staff isn't a good sign for Mariner.

[TFC07]

People seemed to forget that Mariner seemed quite happy to be offering Heath the head coach's job "in the future". So, it seems like Mariner doesn't want to be head coach long term.

That's because Mariner was planning to become a GM or even President of TFC club in the long term before Payne was hired. But that isn't going to happen now. So head coach is the probably best job he can get with TFC now. If he doesn't produce, then he's gone.

[ensco]

People seem to be generally critical of the idea of Nelson as an MLS manager. Why? Is it really that obvious that a retread (Peter Novak or John Spencer), or a USL or an NCAA coach (as excited as people got about Heath, that model is pretty unproven) would be better?

Strikes me as a very similar candidate to Kreis or Olson, except less familiar with today's MLS, sure, but in this setup that is Payne's job.

In a world with only one Dominic Kinnear, I'd be completely fine with Nelson as manager, if that is what Payne decides to do here.

[Yohan]

People seem to be generally critical of the idea of Nelson as an MLS manager. Why? Is it really that obvious that a retread (Peter Novak or John Spencer), or a USL or an NCAA coach (as excited as people got about Heath, that model is pretty unproven) would be better?

Strikes me as a very similar candidate to Kreis or Olson, except less familiar with today's MLS, sure, but in this setup that is Payne's job.

In a world with only one Dominic Kinnear, I'd be completely fine with Nelson as manager, if that is what Payne decides to do here.
are you prepared to accept another year of playoff less season, because likely with some huge learning curve, Nelsen isn't going to produce the goods right away

[ensco]

are you prepared to accept another year of playoff less season, because likely with some huge learning curve, Nelsen isn't going to produce the goods right away

Yes. Payne has said exactly that. Don't let the Peralta signing or Lopez rumours influence your judgment - every team is getting better.

We are in a massive, deep hole. 2013 is a writeoff in every scenario. It is what has to happen.

I gave up my season tickets for this reason. But based on what Payne is doing, TFC are impressing me. If they keep it up, they may just get me back for 2014.

[Initial B]

I'm a bit concerned about the Honduran signings. Will they have good chemistry with the other players Payne is bringing in? Then again, maybe that is why this season will be a write-off - Payne is putting together a core that he expects will work well together next year after they work the communicative kinks out this year. Still, I'm worried about the Hondurans, being familiar with each other, will turn insular and we'll be stuck with TFC cliques, the next generation.

[Oldtimer]

I'm a bit concerned about the Honduran signings. Will they have good chemistry with the other players Payne is bringing in? Then again, maybe that is why this season will be a write-off - Payne is putting together a core that he expects will work well together next year after they work the communicative kinks out this year. Still, I'm worried about the Hondurans, being familiar with each other, will turn insular and we'll be stuck with TFC cliques, the next generation.

All I can say is, Payne had his mix of Latin American and American players in DC, and it worked very well. They key to avoiding cliques is getting players with character.

[boozilla]

Still, I'm worried about the Hondurans, will turn insular and we'll be stuck with TFC cliques.

All teams have cliques. As long as the coach is not involved (e.g. MoJo / Garcia), it's normal.

[ensco]

All I can say is, Payne had his mix of Latin American and American players in DC, and it worked very well. They key to avoiding cliques is getting players with character.

It worked sometimes. It was a disaster in 2008-2009. No guarantees in life.

[ag futbol]

All teams have cliques. As long as the coach is not involved (e.g. MoJo / Garcia), it's normal.
Not trying to go backwards here but Garcia was not Mojo's guy in the locker room. At least that's what I heard discussed on a podcast or two with some knowledgable sources. Garcia was the MLSPU guy for TFC and they did not always see eye-to-eye. The KC link - which we all assumed made him an insider - didn't end up meaning anything.

Just my opinion - and I have nothing to say its true - but if there was a rat it's more likely someone like Jim Brennan.

[Oldtimer]

It worked sometimes. It was a disaster in 2008-2009. No guarantees in life. If we had as good a record as DC, I would live with 1 disfunctional year.

[Richard]

All i can say is im getting tired of rookie coaches.

[ensco]

If we had as good a record as DC, I would live with 1 disfunctional year.

Bringing in Gallardo et al killed DCU for three years.

Nothing is as black and white as we want it to be, sometimes.

There is no coaching hire that will make a majority happy. None. Except maybe Kinnear.

[Stress]

Latest article on goal.com (GB edition) has Harry expressing his concerns about Nelsen leaving QPR for MLS coaching job but it says the club is DCU.

[moralis]

Latest info on Ryan Nelsen possibly joining TFC as assistant coach:

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/news/artic...jectid=10857539 (http://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/news/article.cfm?c_id=4&objectid=10857539)

Earlier reports were that Nelsen was going to be DC United's assistant coach, however Ben Olsen deny s it.

They already have a full coach staff

http://www.dcunited.com/coaches/ben-olsen

[moralis]

Bad news on Honduran attacking midfielder Alexander Lopez who was linked to TFC:

http://www.mlssoccer.com/blog/rumor-central/2013/01/05/rumor-central-houston-chasing-another-honduran-midfielder

Looks like he's joining his Honduran teammate Oscar Boneik Garcia at Houston

[ag futbol]

^ doesn't look like anything is confirmed in there... Only that they are interested

[Oldtimer]

Bringing in Gallardo et al killed DCU for three years.

Nothing is as black and white as we want it to be, sometimes.

There is no coaching hire that will make a majority happy. None. Except maybe Kinnear.

"Killed" is an exagerration, IMO. They won the US Open Cup in 2008, and were the runners up in 2009. They did miss the post-season, though. It might have been more due to Soehn's coaching than player-management, though, as the same GM was in place! Bruce Arena, Thomas Rongen were the glory era, Nowak won an MLS Cup. I'd love to have DC's problem: 2 mediocre years and one really down year in 16 years. 4 MLS Cups. 4 Supporters' Shields. 2 Open Cups. 1 CONCACAF Champions' Cup (predecessor to the CCL). Most of us who have suffered through 6 lousy years of TFC can't even dream of a record like that.

[TFCwestcan]

Bad news on Honduran attacking midfielder Alexander Lopez who was linked to TFC:

http://www.mlssoccer.com/blog/rumor-central/2013/01/05/rumor-central-houston-chasing-another-honduran-midfielder

Looks like he's joining his Honduran teammate Oscar Boneik Garcia at Houston

Ahhh, too bad. Well as we seem to be getting new TFC rumours every second day let's see what Monday brings.

[ensco]

"Killed" is an exagerration, IMO. They won the US Open Cup in 2008, and were the runners up in 2009. They did miss the post-season, though. It might have been more due to Soehn's coaching than player-management, though, as the same GM was in place! Bruce Arena, Thomas Rongen were the glory era, Nowak won an MLS Cup. I'd love to have DC's problem: 2 mediocre years and one really down year in 16 years. 4 MLS Cups. 4 Supporters' Shields. 2 Open Cups. 1 CONCACAF Champions' Cup (predecessor to the CCL). Most of us who have suffered through 6 lousy years of TFC can't even dream of a record like that.

Not debating DCU's overall record. Yes it was absolutely done with quality Latin Americans. Discussing what happens when you inject a bunch of Latin American signings at once.

DCU did 5 in second half of 2008 and first half of 2009, and it's not an exaggeration to say it killed the team. DCU were dead last in 2010 and still awful in 2011. They moved Boswell and Carroll to sign those players, and wound up overhauling the roster twice in three years.

Their 2012 renaissance was not founded on Latin signings.

I think Latin signings are an important part of MLS, but so are a number of other things we've done poorly (international signings from Europe, college scouting, pro scouting). We have to be a lot better at all of these things.

[prizby]

PM is in a three year deal, what's he have to be worried about?

i have yet to see an offical tfc press release saying he had a 3 year extension; at the end of season, mariner said he had a contract thru 2013

[ensco]

Ahhh, too bad. Well as we seem to be getting new TFC rumours every second day let's see what Monday brings.

One of the annoying things about MLS is the discovery signing process. We can never tell who is actually available to be considered for signing, and who is off limits because someone else has them on their list. The way the league does it, by not disclosing the lists or how they really work, is rife with the perception of unfairness.

[spe18]

i have yet to see an offical tfc press release saying he had a 3 year extension; at the end of season, mariner said he had a contract thru 2013

Ya, here's the tweet from Gerry Dobson on October 18 on Mariner having one more year (from Anselmi):

Gerry Dobson ‏@SNGerryDobson (https://twitter.com/SNGerryDobson) Will Paul Mariner be the coach next year? Anselmi; "He's under contract for one more year. We'll do our review and go from there."

[Yohan]

'Arry thinks Nelsen is leaving to be a manager. Hrm

http://www.westlondonsport.com/qpr/key-defender-nelsen-looks-set-to-quit-qpr

[Yohan]

http://translate.google.com/translate?sl=auto&tl=en&js=n&prev=_t&hl=en&ie=UTF-8&eotf=1&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.diez.hn%2FEdiciones%2F2013%2F01 %2F06%2FNoticias%2FHonduras-quiere-una-liga-al-estilo-MLS%23.UOnD_ne5UTk

More on Honduran football financial meltdown

[Oldtimer]

http://translate.google.com/translate?sl=auto&tl=en&js=n&prev=_t&hl=en&ie=UTF-8&eotf=1&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.diez.hn%2FEdiciones%2F2013%2F01 %2F06%2FNoticias%2FHonduras-quiere-una-liga-al-estilo-MLS%23.UOnD_ne5UTk

More on Honduran football financial meltdown

Thanks, things seem really rough for them.

[ag futbol]

http://translate.google.com/translate?sl=auto&tl=en&js=n&prev=_t&hl=en&ie=UTF-8&eotf=1&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.diez.hn%2FEdiciones%2F2013%2F01 %2F06%2FNoticias%2FHonduras-quiere-una-liga-al-estilo-MLS%23.UOnD_ne5UTk

More on Honduran football financial meltdown
A lot of scary political stuff going on down there too.