TFC 2013 general player moves/speculation/etc.

[Lucky Strike]

Thought we could open an in-season rumour mill now that the first match is behind us and that we could start it with this:

Toronto FC ‏@torontofc #TFC (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23TFC&src=hash) training update: Jaime Peters, Ryan Richter & Lance Rozeboom on trial with the club. #TFClive (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23TFClive&src=hash)


Some new names in there... What do you guys think?

[Lucky Strike]

Toronto FC ‏@torontofc #TFC (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23TFC&src=hash) training update: Jake Hustedt & Jonathan Beaulieu-Bourgault remain on trial. #TFClive (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23TFClive&src=hash)

[DangerRed]

Peters could be decent at back. The other two are young DCU/PU castoffs, so shows Payne is turning back to look forward. I don't mind, as long as it doesn't funk up our roster with duds.

[tfcleeds]

Knew I'd heard the name Rozeboom somewhere, guess he's the ex-PU guy.

[Greatest Ripoff]

I can't see how JBB isn't a upgrade on Hall or Dunfield in the centre of the park. He is a steady foot that is needed out there.

Peters could be a cheap domestic back up for Eckersly and could even possible regain some of the form he had at Ipswitch.

[backbeat]

is Bostock still around?

[Jpexxx]

is Bostock still around?

Toronto FC ‏@torontofc (https://twitter.com/torontofc)
“@GavinandKate (https://twitter.com/GavinandKate): @torontofc (https://twitter.com/torontofc) What is the word on Bostock? #TFC (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23TFC&src=hash)” Bostock continues to train with the club. #TFClive (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23TFClive&src=hash)

[ArmenJBX]

Bostock is still training with TFC.

[ArmenJBX]

Also, Onstad's back from Argentina. Says it'll be a couple weeks before news on a player's potential signing.

[tfcmanu]

Bekker out of training with the flu. #TFC (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23TFC&src=hash)

[Jpexxx]

So thats 6 trialists training with the club currently.

Clearly there must be a few current squad guys on the way out?

[Lucky Strike]

I know he's already "here" but this is new regarding Earnshaw.

Kurtis Larson ‏@KurtLarSUN CORRECTION: Earnshaw signed on loan through July. "We'll see then," he said. Enjoying the here and now. #TFC (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23TFC&src=hash)

[DangerRed]

I think both management and supporters of this club would be amazed by how much our results would improve if Hall and Dunfield never started for TFC again. Hopefully this raft of trialists helps make that a reality.

[andmat]

Why all the hate for Dunfield, hes not a bad player. I do not get why people hate him.

[Greatest Ripoff]

Why all the hate for Dunfield, hes not a bad player.

No not a bad player, but also not started on a good team in MLS.

[KRO]

Why all the hate for Dunfield, hes not a bad player. I do not get why people hate him.

For some reason that I have not been able to work out some on this forum would like Dunfield put up against a wall and shot.

While I agree that he is not a superstar he works very hard, shows leadership on the field and scores key goals. He had the two best chances on Saturday by being in the right place at the right time although he probably should have scored with the header. He seems to be thought of quite highly by the coaching staff as Winter, Mariner and now Nelsen all put him out there.

I can only think that the haters either don't know a useful player when they see one or perhaps they are Man United fans who resent that he played for City.

[Ultra & Proud]

I can only think that the haters either don't know a useful player when they see one
This.

Plus it's always a thing around here to identify a player to blame for everything, one who usually does their job but isn't flashy and works hard (like Dunfield) but will heap praise on other players who actually accomplished less, looked flashy, but had reps as not being the hardest working types around (Avila).

As I said before many times; every good team in the league has a Dunfield type player on their rosters. Some start, some sub but they all have them.

[tfcleeds]

I've never had a problem with Dunfield. At the same time, I don't think he should be a (regular) starter.

[Jpexxx]

I think that if the whole team is healthy (which never happens) Dunfield is more than capable of coming off the bench. I don't mind him fighting for a starting spot, and getting some starts when starters are injured, or if we have a bunch of games clustered together (example: if we happen to qualify for Champs League).

I also love his shitty goal celebrations. He clearly cares about the team, and works hard.

I want to see what it looks like to have Dunfield beside Cesar when he returns.

[tfcmanu]

KurtLarSUN: Nelsen says he's hoping Bostock deal will be done soon. #TFC (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23TFC&src=hash)”

[Pint]

KurtLarSUN: Nelsen says he's hoping Bostock deal will be done soon. #TFC (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23TFC&src=hash)”

Would provide a big boost for the team heading into the weekend. I assume he is fit because he has been with the team for a while, just need the contract done and he should be able to slot in sat.

[OgtheDim]

I have an issue with a central midfielder who tends to pass backwards or sideways. I don't think that's what a CM should do.

DM for Dunfield? Well, maybe. But then I also don't think Dunfield tracks well in tandem with others, which is a primary skill for a DM. I put this up to him not being as able to read the play consistently as is needed at this level.

Which is why I think he'd make a decent DM replacement coming off the bench when a good DM is beside him.

Hard to hate a guy who works so hard and obviously loves the game and the team. But he's a journeyman who's had more of a chance then he should.

[andmat]

KurtLarSUN: Nelsen says he's hoping Bostock deal will be done soon. #TFC (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23TFC&src=hash)”

Not surprised, prob another trial till July

[andmat]

I know he's already "here" but this is new regarding Earnshaw.

Kurtis Larson ‏@KurtLarSUNCORRECTION: Earnshaw signed on loan through July. "We'll see then," he said. Enjoying the here and now. #TFC (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23TFC&src=hash)

I thought Tfc and Paybe said it was a signing and not a loan.

[ManUtd4ever]

Bostock and Peters would provide adequate depth at the AM and RB positions.

[tfcmanu]

TFC ASN ‏@TorontoFCasn “@Aljarov (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/Aljarov): @TorontoFCasn (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/TorontoFCasn) Taylor Morgan is apparently Canadian. Who knew?! (Per MLS)”

[Abou Sky]

Why all the hate for Dunfield, hes not a bad player. I do not get why people hate him.

He is one of my favorite players, he does his job well and works his ass off, people don't see it much because DM isn't exactly a 'glory' position and stopping/slowing an opponent making a run so that someone else on your team can intercept a pass isn't something most people can even identify (myself often included). He doesn't make more mistakes than most BUT his position is such that when he does it is a big deal and can often lead to goals for the opposition.

I think dollar for dollar he is probably the best value we have on the entire team.

If I actually had some time I would love to get some people together to make a banner to give the guy some much deserved love.

All that said, I think I just made up my mind as to who I am getting on my new kit!

[moralis]

Interesting comments about TFC's attempt to sign Olof Mellberg:

ESPN: Much has been made about the league intervening in transfers like with Brek Shea (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/player/_/id/117724/Brek-Shea). But I recall that there was an incident in Toronto last year where it was reported that they wanted to buy a player, Olof Mellberg (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/player/_/id/120651/Olof-Mellberg), and the league stepped in and prevented it. Do you think it’s appropriate for the league to intervene in cases like that?

DG: At this level of our development, I think the league should continue to have enormous influence as to what kinds of decisions should be made so that teams don’t make decisions that can either compromise them, or have a negative effect on what it is we’re trying to achieve. Our view on Mellberg was that it was just not a decision that would be smart for TFC, or smart for the league as a whole. We are hesitant to ever say no but are really strong in assuring that we work with our clubs to have them make good decisions. It is that process that has put us in the position to be far more successful, and have accomplished far more than most people thought we would be able to achieve. That model works and will continue to work for the near future.

http://espnfc.com/blog/_/name/soccerusa/id/1732?cc=5901

[Oldtimer]

Thanks, Lucky for opening this thread.

A reminder that all speculation and rumours and general discussion go in this thread, individual threads can be started for confirmed by conventional media or the club player news.

[Oldtimer]

To continue the discussion, some quotes from the off-season thread:


You would think this league wouldn't need rules on running your team like morons. Really, what would be the upside for TFC signing Mellburg? The team was in last and not making the playoffs. What would a few more wins gain? A worse draft pick? Some short term improvements to help sell tickets and make Mariner look better? If TFC had signed Mellberg the team would be in an even worse position moving forward then they are now.


Personally I'm a bit shocked RE Garber's words about the Mellberg situation. I'll eat some crow on that one. I never thought last summer that the league would have interfered so judgmentally in a specific player signing. I figured if the league had interfered, it would have been due to TFC's overall DP situation (e.g., Frings + Koevermans injured but still on the books + JDG to Dallas but a big chunk of his salary still covered by Toronto + the hasty Hassli signing + Mellberg???).

Now mind you, MLS probably did interfere more vigorously in the case of TFC due to our history -- overpaying JDG; Mista; overpaying for Ecks & many others since 2007; the Plata signing & not knowing there was a hefty transfer fee due for him; etc. etc.

Also, it does seem like Garber lied, changing his story between this interview & his earlier words quoted above. I'm generally not happy with the league's lack of transparency. However, there is one explanation that would tie these changing stories together somewhat: likely Mariner & Co. wanted Mellberg, but perhaps MLS went to the MLSE owners and convinced them that Mellberg wasn't worth it: too much money for a defender in a lost season.


People in management positions lie sometimes. They have to. What does a manager say to the employee who has heard a rumour that he is going to be canned, when the manager knows it could be true but can't say anything yet? 99% of the time the manager lies, and it's usually not because he/she is an asshole, or trying to cheat the employee.

It's a question of context and motive. Some execs think that, because you have to lie on rare occasion, what the hell, it justifies lying all the time. It's a slippery slope. We've seen a couple of those associated with our team. (But that's a different topic.)

Garber understood what was going on here and was obviously working on getting the message through to MLSE's new owners. These things couldn't be done through the newspapers. Remember, the sale hadn't closed. There wasn't a lot he could really do other than protect us the way he did. He had the long term interest of our franchise at heart when absolutely nobody else in the universe did. He was our only friend in 2012. (Let's be clear, this wasn't altruism, he also didn't want these clowns to continue screwing the league salary structure up. That was his other motive, and it was a biggie.)

I salute him for it.

[Oldtimer]

I personally thank Gerber for stepping in when Anselmi and his gang of idiots were running the team. I also thank him for "interfering" and getting us a qualified manager (Payne) to run things, instead of letting Tommy appoint Cochrane president (* shudder *). It may or may not work out with Payne, but you can see that Garber has the long-term viability of the franchise at heart, something that ML$E was doing their best to destroy in their stupidity. One of the great things about this league is that they can step in and prevent self-destruction, something we've seen time and time again in leagues overseas. Garber only uses that power when he absolutely has to, he prefers to be much more hands of than his predecessor, Doug Logan was.

[Lucky Strike]

Kristian Jack ‏@KristianJackExclusive: Toronto FC close in on Argentine forward Maximiliano Urruti to be their next DP http://wp.me/p2UTyX-4P (http://t.co/xOmuW22nhI)#tfc (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23tfc&src=hash) #mls (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23mls&src=hash)

EDIT: And presumably Kristian means "young DP" as he is only 22.

[PopePouri]

New DP?

http://4-2-3-1.com/2013/03/06/exclusive-toronto-fc-close-in-on-argentine-forward-maximiliano-urruti-to-be-their-next-dp/

http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maximiliano_Urruti

Maximiliano Urruti ( February 22 (http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/22_de_febrero) of 1991 (http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/1991) , Rosario (http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rosario_(Argentina)) ) is a football player (http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/F%C3%BAtbol)Argentinian (http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Argentina) playing at Newell's Old Boys (http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Club_Atl%C3%A9tico_Newells_Old_Boys) . He is the son of Juan Jose Urruti (http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Juan_Jos%C3%A9_Urruti) , former football player and current coach of Sacred Heart (Rosario). Maximiliano has a 1-year with 7 goals scored for Newell's.

http://youtu.be/3CVh8hBMJJg

[MKR]

sounds promising.

Quick question: what ever happened to that one highly touted Honduran dude - Arnold Peralta (?) Wasn't it all over the Honduran press that he was signing with us or something?

[flamehawk]

New DP?

http://4-2-3-1.com/2013/03/06/exclusive-toronto-fc-close-in-on-argentine-forward-maximiliano-urruti-to-be-their-next-dp/

http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maximiliano_Urruti

Maximiliano Urruti ( February 22 (http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/22_de_febrero) of 1991 (http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/1991) , Rosario (http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rosario_(Argentina)) ) is a football player (http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/F%C3%BAtbol)Argentinian (http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Argentina) playing at Newell's Old Boys (http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Club_Atl%C3%A9tico_Newells_Old_Boys) . He is the son of Juan Jose Urruti (http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Juan_Jos%C3%A9_Urruti) , former football player and current coach of Sacred Heart (Rosario). Maximiliano has a 1-year with 7 goals scored for Newell's.

http://youtu.be/3CVh8hBMJJg

Not sure I am too happy about signing someone with complaints re: racist comments attributed to him. He seems to have skills, but right now, I'd rather get a winger/play maker.

[Oldtimer]

New DP?

http://4-2-3-1.com/2013/03/06/exclusive-toronto-fc-close-in-on-argentine-forward-maximiliano-urruti-to-be-their-next-dp/

http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maximiliano_Urruti

Maximiliano Urruti ( February 22 (http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/22_de_febrero) of 1991 (http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/1991) , Rosario (http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rosario_(Argentina)) ) is a football player (http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/F%C3%BAtbol)Argentinian (http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Argentina) playing at Newell's Old Boys (http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Club_Atl%C3%A9tico_Newells_Old_Boys) . He is the son of Juan Jose Urruti (http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Juan_Jos%C3%A9_Urruti) , former football player and current coach of Sacred Heart (Rosario). Maximiliano has a 1-year with 7 goals scored for Newell's.

http://youtu.be/3CVh8hBMJJg

Interesting. Could be true and could be a good addition.

[Detroit_TFC]

sounds promising.

Quick question: what ever happened to that one highly touted Honduran dude - Arnold Peralta (?) Wasn't it all over the Honduran press that he was signing with us or something?

Clubs came to terms but player didn't want to make the move, 2nd time he's done that in his career apparently.

[flamehawk]

Anyone know who on the roster is on non-guaranteed contracts?

[ensco]

If true, Koevs is gone.

[Oldtimer]

If true, Koevs is gone.

Why?

[Gazza]

Or Earnshaw isn't resigned in the summer. If Koevs is ready to go. That still remains to be seen.

[AlanO]

Clubs came to terms but player didn't want to make the move, 2nd time he's done that in his career apparently.

Read somewhere that Peralta hasn't been getting paid by his club, and he refused the transfer because he didn't want his current club to get a transfer fee when they haven't paid his wages.

[ensco]

Why?

They play the same position. This would be recreating the Hassli problem.

I wouldn't expect anyone to use 2 DP slots at CF.

Only exception might be someone who put fannies in the seats (ie Del Piero). But otherwise, it's dumb.

[ManUtd4ever]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3CVh8hBMJJg

[Ultra & Proud]

They play the same position. This would be recreating the Hassli problem.

I wouldn't expect anyone to use 2 DP slots at CF.

Only exception might be someone who put fannies in the seats (ie Del Piero). But otherwise, it's dumb.

I agree but some articles on Urruti mention he can play as a supporting striker too.

[MKR]

I'd definitely wait to see how this guy performs on the pitch before any decisions regarding other players are concerned. If he's versatile then maybe they can co-exist. Any anyways, Koev's injury is definitely career threatening. Signing another center forward is pretty crucial for this team right now and it really shouldn't have any bearing on the players already here. I'm sure Danny himself wouldn't want more depth at that position. Same thing with Earnshaw. we need the reinforcements.

[DangerRed]

Kristian Jack ‏@KristianJackExclusive: Toronto FC close in on Argentine forward Maximiliano Urruti to be their next DP http://wp.me/p2UTyX-4P (http://t.co/xOmuW22nhI)#tfc (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23tfc&src=hash) #mls (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23mls&src=hash)

EDIT: And presumably Kristian means "young DP" as he is only 22.

WOW. Now that sounds like a fucking DP. Like the age, like the highlight reel, like the skill on show. Plus kid looks like he has a rocket launcher on his foot.

Con: he's from South America, and this is a direct, physical league with relatively less emphasis on technical skill. Still definitely worth the gamble.

[Ajax TFC]

They play the same position. This would be recreating the Hassli problem.

I wouldn't expect anyone to use 2 DP slots at CF.

Only exception might be someone who put fannies in the seats (ie Del Piero). But otherwise, it's dumb.
TFC can't get rid of Koevermans unless they trade him (for shit all), which would be a pretty dumb thing to do halfway through the season in his last season and no shortage of cap space.

[andmat]

TFC can't get rid of Koevermans unless they trade him (for shit all), which would be a pretty dumb thing to do halfway through the season in his last season and no shortage of cap space.

They can buy him out? i believe you get 1 buy out that does not go against the cap,

[Canary10]

It's likely Koevermans gets in, at best, half a season, if that. The problem with recovering from knee injuries is half psychological. When I did mine in, it took me a few months before I could even go into a hard tackle without fear. He's a professional athelete obviously and will have a different mentality, but it's still going to be tough for him. That's if the physical part is ok.

[Canary10]

They can buy him out? i believe you get 1 buy out that does not go against the cap,

They already bought out Frings. That applies to only 1 DP in a year.

[DangerRed]

For some reason that I have not been able to work out some on this forum would like Dunfield put up against a wall and shot.

While I agree that he is not a superstar he works very hard, shows leadership on the field and scores key goals. He had the two best chances on Saturday by being in the right place at the right time although he probably should have scored with the header. He seems to be thought of quite highly by the coaching staff as Winter, Mariner and now Nelsen all put him out there.

I can only think that the haters either don't know a useful player when they see one or perhaps they are Man United fans who resent that he played for City.

Haters? What football are you watching? Go back to last year's matchday threads and look at what was being said about Terry's performances.

Bottom line, Dunfield should not be starting for this team. Period, full stop. If you think otherwise, you're not watching closely enough. I don't give a rat's ass about hard work. I care about results. If achieving results require hard work, then so be it - the two aren't mutually exclusive. I commend Chad Barrett for his incredible work-rate, but am I sad he's gone? No, because for all his hard work, he couldn't get any RESULTS. If Silva works half as hard as Barrett to score more goals, you're going to tell me you'd rather have Barrett on the team and heap praise on him?

I think it's fashionable around these parts to love and adore players for their workman-like attitude, the great "heart" they put on display every weekend. But what no one is talking about is how we love and adore hard-working LOSERS.

I think sooner or later, the current regime hopefully will see things the same way, and Terry, the utility player that he is, will become a valuable 65th minute substitute brought on to seal wins for us by shutting up shop in the midfield against opponents who are tired out and more his speed.

[andmat]

They already bought out Frings. That applies to only 1 DP in a year.

No they did not? they convinced him to retire, and did not use the buyout, And even if they did buy out Frings we will never know.

[ensco]

Koevs/TFC are in a bizarre situation

He is owed $1.5 million. But he may not be able to play. If he can't play, TFC can recover some or all of that salary. but nothing can be determined until he is ready to "play", ie in June.

There is a high likelihood he can't play, but I would guess that TFC won't do anything that might queer the insurance settlement. There's no way they'd just "buy him out". But it's obvious he may be done.

How this all works with the March 1 buyout date, requires a level of knowledge of league rules that is not disclosed.

[Ajax TFC]

No they did not? they convinced him to retire, and did not use the buyout
Buyouts can only be used in the offseason, and you're out of your mind if you think Frings gave up ~2m to retire because the team wanted him to. Payne already said that they came up with a solution that satisfied both parties, which sounds like a buyout to me

[Canary10]

^ He retired, yes, but you don't think he got paid out? I'd say, morally, they should pay him out.

[pekduck]

Dunfiled works hard. - Agreed
Dunfield is effective? - NO!
Dunfield should be kept in the team? - YES!
Dunfield as starter? - NO!

Dunfield works really heard and had a few converted chances and scored few big goals (by probability and law of average, he will convert some of the chances, but he shanks more chances as we've seen). He does give it all and is a true warrior (keep in the team). He is disruptive to the opposition (tackles hard, will throw the body into challenges, albeit not nimble, but destructive to the play). Unfortunately, he's also disruption to our game flow. He stifles midfield movement with poor first touch, long reaction time, and lack of movement. It's all about opportunity cost, having Dunfield in the starting 11 may see him score a few goals and make some good plays, but the cost of that is: we could have someone else that has way better with movement, first touch and ball control (Silva, Bekkar, Ephraim, Earnshaw for instance). When the likes of Silva, Bekkar, Ephraim, Ecks takes 1 touch to trap/receive the ball, 1 touch to pass it and making movement before/after receiving pass (All of that takes 1 second combined), we see Dunfield takes 1 heavy touch and have to retain control, then looks up to see what he'll do, then have to either back pass or side pass because he was not in position or not making movement into next position (All of that takes 2-3 seconds, and opposition has closed the gap and has time to challenge him), our possession went from active to passive.

[ensco]

Buyouts can only be used in the offseason, and you're out of your mind if you think Frings gave up ~2m to retire because the team wanted him to. Payne already said that they came up with a solution that satisfied both parties, which sounds like a buyout to me

Yes. They can call it anything they want, but that has to be how it worked.

As outlined for Koevs above, some of this may have taken the form of an insurance settlement - that's my guess as to what the mystery trip to Toronto, where he left camp 10 days before this was announced, was all about, ie. Frings getting checked out by the insurer's doctors.

[Canary10]

I'm guessing he won't play again. If he's physically ready in June, he's going to need more time on top of that to get into game shape i.e. lose the fear that it's going to go again on him when he gets into real game situations. That puts into the late summer. It's really doubtful I think.

[ManUtd4ever]

Why is there still a tireless debate about Dunfield?

He is what he is; a hard working central midfielder that is best suited as a late game sub for defensive reinforcements who can also chip in the odd goal. No better, no worse.

I think it's safe to assume that Nelsen will not be using him as a regular starter once our roster is healthy.

[Canary10]

Dunfiled works hard. - Agreed
Dunfield is effective? - NO!
Dunfield should be kept in the team? - YES!
Dunfield as starter? - NO!

Dunfield works really heard and had a few converted chances and scored few big goals (by probability and law of average, he will convert some of the chances, but he shanks more chances as we've seen). He does give it all and is a true warrior (keep in the team). He is disruptive to the opposition (tackles hard, will throw the body into challenges, albeit not nimble, but destructive to the play). Unfortunately, he's also disruption to our game flow. He stifles midfield movement with poor first touch, long reaction time, and lack of movement. It's all about opportunity cost, having Dunfield in the starting 11 may see him score a few goals and make some good plays, but the cost of that is: we could have someone else that has way better with movement, first touch and ball control (Silva, Bekkar, Ephraim, Earnshaw for instance). When the likes of Silva, Bekkar, Ephraim, Ecks takes 1 touch to trap/receive the ball, 1 touch to pass it and making movement before/after receiving pass (All of that takes 1 second combined), we see Dunfield takes 1 heavy touch and have to retain control, then looks up to see what he'll do, then have to either back pass or side pass because he was not in position or not making movement into next position (All of that takes 2-3 seconds, and opposition has closed the gap and has time to challenge him), our possession went from active to passive.

Totally agree. At this level, the least you should expect from a central midfielder is to win balls, run hard for 90 minutes and have distribution skills. He's got none of the latter. At best should be a sub.

[West220Side]

They play the same position. This would be recreating the Hassli problem.

I wouldn't expect anyone to use 2 DP slots at CF.

Only exception might be someone who put fannies in the seats (ie Del Piero). But otherwise, it's dumb.

In no way at all is Koevs gone or is this a repitition of the Hassli problem. This Argentinian is a 5'10 145lb centre forward, I can see him maybe pushing Silva out of his position, or playing behind Koevs in the future. At no way is he capable of holding the ball up in a 4-1-3-1 which we're currently (sort of) playing. I figure the only reason we're playing a 4-1-3-1 is because Koev's is out once he returned I always believed we would be playing both Earnshaw and Koevermans at striker together. 4-4-2 with the wingers slightly pressed up more or a diamond in the centre.

[Damien]

Let's hope this Argentinian isn't another Pablo Vitti.

[Canary10]

In no way at all is Koevs gone or is this a repitition of the Hassli problem. This Argentinian is a 5'10 145lb centre forward, I can see him maybe pushing Silva out of his position, or playing behind Koevs in the future. At no way is he capable of holding the ball up in a 4-1-3-1 which we're currently (sort of) playing. I figure the only reason we're playing a 4-1-3-1 is because Koev's is out once he returned I always believed we would be playing both Earnshaw and Koevermans at striker together. 4-4-2 with the wingers slightly pressed up more or a diamond in the centre.

I seriously doubt Earnshaw is still around after his contract expires in July. He was signed to fill a glaring need and buy Payne et al time to sign the long-term player they want in that position. Once Cardiff stops paying for most of his salary, he'll be unaffordable to TFC, regardless of how well he does. I give it a 10% chance, max, that he's still here in August.

[ManUtd4ever]

Let's hope this Argentinian isn't another Pablo Vitti.

He seems to have a better nose for the net than Vitti.

[Red I]

In no way at all is Koevs gone or is this a repitition of the Hassli problem. This Argentinian is a 5'10 145lb centre forward, I can see him maybe pushing Silva out of his position, or playing behind Koevs in the future. At no way is he capable of holding the ball up in a 4-1-3-1 which we're currently (sort of) playing. I figure the only reason we're playing a 4-1-3-1 is because Koev's is out once he returned I always believed we would be playing both Earnshaw and Koevermans at striker together. 4-4-2 with the wingers slightly pressed up more or a diamond in the centre.

... 4-1-3-1 adds up to 9, i think you mean a 4-2-3-1

[Walms]

If I actually had some time I would love to get some people together to make a banner to give the guy some much deserved love.

I would be all over this, I was gonna make a 2-stick this year for a game at BMO

[KRO]

Haters? What football are you watching? Go back to last year's matchday threads and look at what was being said about Terry's performances.

Bottom line, Dunfield should not be starting for this team. Period, full stop. If you think otherwise, you're not watching closely enough. I don't give a rat's ass about hard work. I care about results. If achieving results require hard work, then so be it - the two aren't mutually exclusive. I commend Chad Barrett for his incredible work-rate, but am I sad he's gone? No, because for all his hard work, he couldn't get any RESULTS. If Silva works half as hard as Barrett to score more goals, you're going to tell me you'd rather have Barrett on the team and heap praise on him?

I think it's fashionable around these parts to love and adore players for their workman-like attitude, the great "heart" they put on display every weekend. But what no one is talking about is how we love and adore hard-working LOSERS.

I think sooner or later, the current regime hopefully will see things the same way, and Terry, the utility player that he is, will become a valuable 65th minute substitute brought on to seal wins for us by shutting up shop in the midfield against opponents who are tired out and more his speed.

I'm sorry, I don't get your point. Are you saying that there are no Dunfield "haters" out there. You must be reading different threads to me. What football do I watch? Every minute of every TFC home game from the front row of the North Stand as you asked. The most vitriolic criticism of Dunfield seems to come from couch potatoes who watch on TV and don't see the work he does off the ball.

However, I don't think that we are far apart in our opinion. When we do have a team out there capable of winning something more significant than the Voyageurs Cup I don't expect Dunfield to be more than a back up midfielder.

Anyway, I think we are in the wrong thread here and that's my last on the subject.

[jloome]

I'm sorry, I don't get your point. Are you saying that there are no Dunfield "haters" out there. You must be reading different threads to me. What football do I watch? Every minute of every TFC home game from the front row of the North Stand as you asked. The most vitriolic criticism of Dunfield seems to come from couch potatoes who watch on TV and don't see the work he does off the ball.

However, I don't think that we are far apart in our opinion. When we do have a team out there capable of winning something more significant than the Voyageurs Cup I don't expect Dunfield to be more than a back up midfielder.

Anyway, I think we are in the wrong thread here and that's my last on the subject.

Same old argument. There are very few Dunfield haters. There are many people who hate him starting. You can hate someone's football and still like the guy. The majority of the posts here criticizing him are exactly that. Occasionally, some juvenile idiot says he should burn in hell or something. You know that's not representative of most people.

People can like a player all they want, but if you're debating his merits with someone, extending their argument about him to absurd proportions based on the odd off-the-cuff from some nitwit not even involved in the discussion is just a waste of both parties' time.

[Whoop]

The Argentinian DP target has been identified.

Maximilian Urruti, 22 year old striker from Newell Old Boys.

http://4-2-3-1.com/2013/03/06/exclusive-toronto-fc-close-in-on-argentine-forward-maximiliano-urruti-to-be-their-next-dp/

[DangerRed]

Not sure if already mentioned, but "a source with knowledge of the negotiations told the Sun this week the Reds are keen to bring aboard Alfredo Mejia, 22, and Ricardo Barrios, 19, a pair of midfielders from Motagua, ahead of Major League Soccer's April 15 pre-season transfer deadline."

[Ultra & Proud]

Not sure if already mentioned, but "a source with knowledge of the negotiations told the Sun this week the Reds are keen to bring aboard Alfredo Mejia, 22, and Ricardo Barrios, 19, a pair of midfielders from Motagua, ahead of Major League Soccer's April 15 pre-season transfer deadline."

Saw that. If we end up with these two guys, Urruti, Bostock, Ephraim, and Earnshaw we'll have some pretty interesting pieces at Nelson's disposal. And we will be saying bye bye to Lambe and a few others I would assume.

[Abou Sky]

The Argentinian DP target has been identified.

Maximilian Urruti, 22 year old striker from Newell Old Boys.

http://4-2-3-1.com/2013/03/06/exclusive-toronto-fc-close-in-on-argentine-forward-maximiliano-urruti-to-be-their-next-dp/




Highlights reel looks good but I can put together a highlight reel that would make you want to sign my 8 year old.

At 5'10" he is at least built for this league.

Until it comes out officially and I get to see him play I will hold judgement. I won't put my heart out to be broken yet again.

[notthesun]

If we sign Bostock, that's all 8 of our international slots filled, and we'd have to get rid of one player occupying a slot when Koevermans returns from injury and comes off the DL. Those players are O'Dea, Eckersley, Russell, T. Morgan, Lambe, Ephraim, Earnshaw, and Koef. So, who draws the short straw?

Maybe Payne can trade for some additional slots, but I doubt all these players are going to stay, and certainly not past the summer if we leave some of our South American targets to be summer signings.

[DangerRed]

To me Lambe's gone, almost for sure. And Payne said in a recent interview that the squad will look a lot different still by May, which is fine - I like this whole approach of "let's loan and see" as opposed to "let's give you a multi-year, multi-million commitment without any games played."

[Pint]

TFC ASN ‏@TorontoFCasn“@Aljarov (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/Aljarov): @TorontoFCasn (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/TorontoFCasn) Taylor Morgan is apparently Canadian. Who knew?! (Per MLS)”

we still have 1 slot open if we count koef as taking up a spot

[andmat]

we still have 1 slot open if we count koef as taking up a spot

I do not see how Taylor Morgan is Canadian......

[Pint]

Neither do I, just passing along what was already posted in this thread. Hopefully it is true (if he was an international I can't see him being signed).

[tfcmanu]

My source was on twitter:
TFC ASN ‏@TorontoFCasn“@Aljarov (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/Aljarov): @TorontoFCasn (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/TorontoFCasn) Taylor Morgan is apparently Canadian. Who knew?! (Per MLS)”

Neither do I, just passing along what was already posted in this thread. Hopefully it is true (if he was an international I can't see him being signed).

[Stress]

To me Lambe's gone, almost for sure. And Payne said in a recent interview that the squad will look a lot different still by May, which is fine - I like this whole approach of "let's loan and see" as opposed to "let's give you a multi-year, multi-million commitment without any games played."

In my opinion, Russell is likely gone before the end of the season. Given his age and the fact that he was already in Orlando so they decided to invite him to camp, seems like a convenience/short term signing to me and he probably knows it.

[Joe Kool]

To me Lambe's gone, almost for sure.

I don't necessarily agree unless they know for sure they are getting better. In the first game he was fairly good with the ball and got into some dangerous areas and even drew a few free kicks in good spots outside the box with his footwork. He seemed to be involved in the play alot. For pieces of the game I forgot Emphraim was playing. Didn't have that problem with Lambe. I think if he keeps it up it would be a tough call to let him go unless we are sure about an upgrade.

[pekduck]

For pieces of the game I forgot Emphraim was playing.

That's because our midfield couldn't switch flank effectively and tend to run into a dead end on one side of the pitch (Lambe's side) =P

But yeah, Lambe did okay last game, not his best, not his worst, but serviceable

[Chinatownchef]

So thats 6 trialists training with the club currently.

Clearly there must be a few current squad guys on the way out?

Any word on signing our future Argentinan DP word has it it's Maximillo Urruti from the Newell Old Boys?, How about Alfredo Meija and Marvin Barrios from Honduras?


Some say Kristain Jack has it out that Onstead was scouting him.
http://www.wakingthered.com/2013/3/6/4070842/maximiliano-urruti-toronto-fc-Newells-old-boys

[Detroit_TFC]

Buyout deadline was March 5 IIRC

[Detroit_TFC]

Read somewhere that Peralta hasn't been getting paid by his club, and he refused the transfer because he didn't want his current club to get a transfer fee when they haven't paid his wages.

Makes sense, but not sure CDS Vida is in any better situation to pay his wages. Might have lost a dollar trying to get $0.25, if you know what I mean. All moot now in any case, at least until summer window.

[Abou Sky]

Can't Eck get citizenship at some point? Frei? Landed immigrant?

Seems there are lawyers to sort such things out. Someone has to have a Canadian/American grandparent or something.

[sully]

Once you've here 3 years you are entitled to apply for citizenship and brits can have dual citizenship so its a matter of time likely if he wants it.

[Marc"2L"]

Looking at the picture of our DP target, I can't help but wonder what amount of courting is based on displaying Toronto's...
Shall we say...as Gordon Downie put it,

Highlights of the scenery. I was listening to The Big Question podcast, which is pretty good btw, and they brought up something about Columbus being a college town and having that play into it (because otherwise, what do they have going for them compared to LA and NY), for a younger player.

What a fun tour that would be.

[jazzy]

Or Earnshaw isn't resigned in the summer. If Koevs is ready to go. That still remains to be seen.

was in the dressing room last night,...(guest) funny how everyone has their stall with their name except ALL the new signings?-loans?,..And yes koev's complete uni is there with all the trims, flip flops the whole shebang . DeKlerk did say he was working out hard....please be true cause I want him up front, and he is a great team player. I'm wondering if come June/ , all the loans are gone.

[jazzy]

Not sure I am too happy about signing someone with complaints re: racist comments attributed to him. He seems to have skills, but right now, I'd rather get a winger/play maker.

hope what you say isn't true. If so we'll introduce him to Mr. Henry and T. Morgan.

[DoubleUp]

Haters? What football are you watching? Go back to last year's matchday threads and look at what was being said about Terry's performances.

Bottom line, Dunfield should not be starting for this team. Period, full stop. If you think otherwise, you're not watching closely enough. I don't give a rat's ass about hard work. I care about results. If achieving results require hard work, then so be it - the two aren't mutually exclusive. I commend Chad Barrett for his incredible work-rate, but am I sad he's gone? No, because for all his hard work, he couldn't get any RESULTS. If Silva works half as hard as Barrett to score more goals, you're going to tell me you'd rather have Barrett on the team and heap praise on him?

I think it's fashionable around these parts to love and adore players for their workman-like attitude, the great "heart" they put on display every weekend. But what no one is talking about is how we love and adore hard-working LOSERS.

I think sooner or later, the current regime hopefully will see things the same way, and Terry, the utility player that he is, will become a valuable 65th minute substitute brought on to seal wins for us by shutting up shop in the midfield against opponents who are tired out and more his speed.


Great post! about Dunfield and Toronto's love for the "Workman", while the league gets more skilled every year.



Also was doing some research. Though I am not totally familiar with the resume of most of the midfielders we brought in, but imo none have pedigree.

Here is a midfielder Toronto should inquire about, and if not him!.

Somebody with an identical or better CV.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carlos_Grossm%C3%BCller



Note: I had spied Reo-coker for us last year, but with Frings and the salary cap I never bothered to mention it.


Honestly I am always looking for players That can "really" Improve TFC......Its like an addiction.:drunk:


Anyways I hope the Management is able to get it right this season.:scarf:

[Kaz]

This Argentinian kid will work in the right conditions.. you need a player to play behind and in front of him. Either playing without a Right Winger and have Morgan or a Midfielder to come up the left to cross. Letting you have

------Koev-------
-------Urruti-----
Ephriam-Silva-----
---Ceaser-DM----
Ek--OD--Calif--M

Or put him in a Dero Floating Striker like position he seems to be able to pass... so if he can send the ball right, left or forward as well as making a run... particularly if he poaches missed shots and rebounds, he could provide a strong piece to the attack.

----------Koev---------
Ephriam--Urruti---Lambe
----Ceaser----DM------
Eks----OD---Calif----M-

At that point we need a Dunfield and Lambe Replacement in the starting role. Let lambe go... and work with some of the new kids to fill the sub role.

You then have Silva as Chivas bait, and Bekker to step into that Depth/Development role.

Have no idea how effective any of this is.. but I'm think they are looking at some one to slot into the AM/CF hybrid spot. (They are looking for a 21 year old DeRo)

[Abou Sky]

My $.02 on Lambe, he is good and if we dump him and don't have a backup winger we are screwed. He is reasonably well priced depth.

[Benficachop20]

Haters? What football are you watching? Go back to last year's matchday threads and look at what was being said about Terry's performances.

Bottom line, Dunfield should not be starting for this team. Period, full stop. If you think otherwise, you're not watching closely enough. I don't give a rat's ass about hard work. I care about results. If achieving results require hard work, then so be it - the two aren't mutually exclusive. I commend Chad Barrett for his incredible work-rate, but am I sad he's gone? No, because for all his hard work, he couldn't get any RESULTS. If Silva works half as hard as Barrett to score more goals, you're going to tell me you'd rather have Barrett on the team and heap praise on him?

I think it's fashionable around these parts to love and adore players for their workman-like attitude, the great "heart" they put on display every weekend. But what no one is talking about is how we love and adore hard-working LOSERS.

I think sooner or later, the current regime hopefully will see things the same way, and Terry, the utility player that he is, will become a valuable 65th minute substitute brought on to seal wins for us by shutting up shop in the midfield against opponents who are tired out and more his speed.

THANK YOU! The problem too i think is that we are so used to seeing crap on the field that anytime a "hard working" piece of crap comes by we praise it. Sorry he can run around like headless chicken as much as he want's but he's not productive at all. Like in the post says i rather have a player work half as hard but produces more than a player that likes to run around and offers nothing. People kept blabbing about our cb's last year when the biggest problem was the middle of the midfield. Now we have hall and dunfield in the middle, these 2 will hardly break up any of our oppositions plays and start any good attacks.

[KRO]

I do not see how Taylor Morgan is Canadian......
I think someone confused Taylor Morgan with Ashtone Morgan. Taylor is not Canadian.

[Ultra & Proud]

My $.02 on Lambe, he is good and if we dump him and don't have a backup winger we are screwed. He is reasonably well priced depth.
Nothing to do with cash. It's all about his international status and our lack of Int. spots.

[DangerRed]

This Argentinian kid will work in the right conditions.. you need a player to play behind and in front of him. Either playing without a Right Winger and have Morgan or a Midfielder to come up the left to cross. Letting you have

------Koev-------
-------Urruti-----
Ephriam-Silva-----
---Ceaser-DM----
Ek--OD--Calif--M

Or put him in a Dero Floating Striker like position he seems to be able to pass... so if he can send the ball right, left or forward as well as making a run... particularly if he poaches missed shots and rebounds, he could provide a strong piece to the attack.

----------Koev---------
Ephriam--Urruti---Lambe
----Ceaser----DM------
Eks----OD---Calif----M-

At that point we need a Dunfield and Lambe Replacement in the starting role. Let lambe go... and work with some of the new kids to fill the sub role.

You then have Silva as Chivas bait, and Bekker to step into that Depth/Development role.

Have no idea how effective any of this is.. but I'm think they are looking at some one to slot into the AM/CF hybrid spot. (They are looking for a 21 year old DeRo)

You know we have Earnshaw on the roster, right?

[Greatest Ripoff]

I think someone confused Taylor Morgan with Ashtone Morgan. Taylor is not Canadian.

You sure about that? The person who posted it on twitter is researcher for Football Manager.

[Lucky Strike]

You sure about that? The person who posted it on twitter is researcher for Football Manager.


I think I'll just ask TFC via Twitter and post whatever response I get.

[andmat]

Wonder if TFC is trying to trade for an int spot or move one out before they sign Bostock, Hes been rumored to have signed here for a while now and has not.

[reggie]

im thinking the same thing..or do they have to make a trade with SJ to get his rights?

[Yohan]

im thinking the same thing..or do they have to make a trade with SJ to get his rights?
depends on whether SJ made a 'genuine offer' to Bostock. if SJ didn't, Toronto has a shot of signing Bostock without giving SJ a compensation

[KRO]

You sure about that? The person who posted it on twitter is researcher for Football Manager.
I'm not sure that someone mistook Taylor for Ashtone - that was just a theory. I am sure however that Taylor was born in Southampton, England. I don't claim any inside knowledge but his Wiki page has no indication that he has any Canadian connection other than signing for TFC.
Let's see what Lucky Strike comes up with.

[Troll]

im hearing Kenneth Staelens is on trial for tfc. a left sided midfielder.

[Ultra & Proud]

im hearing Kenneth Staelens is on trial for tfc. a left sided midfielder.

Hmmm. 28 year old Belgian who came through Genk's system. Hard to believe he's 28 when you see his tween looking pics on Google. Looks like Bieber's long lost brother.

[reggie]

he is 21,his # is 28...

[Lucky Strike]

I'm not sure that someone mistook Taylor for Ashtone - that was just a theory. I am sure however that Taylor was born in Southampton, England. I don't claim any inside knowledge but his Wiki page has no indication that he has any Canadian connection other than signing for TFC.
Let's see what Lucky Strike comes up with.


Nothing yet on that front...

EDIT: Meanwhile: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kenneth_Staelens

[Auzzy]

Asif confirmed on Twitter that Taylor Morgan counts as an international.

3 hours ago:


Asif Hossain ‏@asifintoronto
(https://twitter.com/asifintoronto)@aljarov (https://twitter.com/Aljarov) Taylor Morgan counts as an international player. #TFC (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23TFC&src=hash)

[gdg_9]

im hearing Kenneth Staelens is on trial for tfc. a left sided midfielder.

Where are you hearing this from?

If this started from his tweet "5AM in Toronto", I'm pretty sure this has nothing to do with TFC, and he isn't even here in Toronto.

That is the name of Drake's new song. And by the looks of his twitter feed, Staelens is a big Drake fan.

Unless someone can confirm a source for this, I have a feeling it's false.

[Nuvinho]

^ Mo Edu had the same tweet as well. I think its just the song title.

[SirBobSaget]

Where are you hearing this from?

If this started from his tweet "5AM in Toronto", I'm pretty sure this has nothing to do with TFC, and he isn't even here in Toronto.

That is the name of Drake's new song. And by the looks of his twitter feed, Staelens is a big Drake fan.

Unless someone can confirm a source for this, I have a feeling it's false.


he also made the tweet at 3:59 AM (EST), so the 5am part was a lie!

[Dv23]

Haha. What a scrumptious misunderstanding.

[JavierMartini]

Let's hope this Argentinian isn't another Pablo Vitti.


what? Pablo vitti is tearing up south america. he was not the problem here. vitti and koevs woulbsuch a deadly duo . we never had poacher who could hold up the ball and finish.

[T-boy]

Enough of the Vitti arguments already. He was poor in the MLS! He may be great in South America, but he wasn't here. Some great wine just doesn't travel well! He should stay in South America where he is clearly more suited.

[JavierMartini]

Enough of the Vitti arguments already. He was poor in the MLS! He may be great in South America, but he wasn't here. Some great wine just doesn't travel well! He should stay in South America where he is clearly more suited.


no. our coach was poor. it was immensely frustrating to watch.

[T-boy]

no. our coach was poor. it was immensely frustrating to watch.

I would say it was probably a bit of both. Could Vitti have played better under a different coach? Yeah probably. But equally is Vitti suited to the physical MLS? Not particularly.

[Auzzy]

Enough of the Vitti arguments already. He was poor in the MLS! He may be great in South America, but he wasn't here. Some great wine just doesn't travel well! He should stay in South America where he is clearly more suited.

Correction: Vitti wasn't very good at TFC. He didn't play anywhere else in MLS. Many players have done far better in other MLS teams than at TFC. Especially when you give them some time to adjust & develop; find the best position for them to play; play them with other good players & allow them time to gel together -- and related to the above, when you have good coaching and management.

[burlington Red]

what? Pablo vitti is tearing up south america. he was not the problem here. vitti and koevs woulbsuch a deadly duo . we never had poacher who could hold up the ball and finish.

He has done well in the Peruivan league, and for that fair play to him, but I am not sure playing well in that league is tearing up South America.

[kuku]

Bostock officially on loan to TFC

Luke Wileman ‏@LukeWileman Toronto FC confirm signing of midfielder John Bostock on loan from Tottenham

[Stress]

Bostock officially on loan to TFC

Luke Wileman ‏@LukeWilemanToronto FC confirm signing of midfielder John Bostock on loan from Tottenham

And...

Kurtis Larson ‏@KurtLarSUN Looks like Bostock will take Bekker's spot in the 11 tomorrow. #TFC (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23TFC&src=hash) #SportingKC (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23SportingKC&src=hash)

[Sweeper]

Maybe a silly question, but do we have international spots for all these players coming over from England?

[andmat]

Maybe a silly question, but do we have international spots for all these players coming over from England?

Right now, we only got 1 int spot Since Kov is Injured.

[Yohan]

http://www.canadiansoccernews.com/content.php?4291-Reds-add

Getting pretty tight on int spots now... Though good to have a creative AM on the squad

[v00d00daddy]

So we assumed Payne would be adding Latin flair based on his history at DCU and all the talk of Hondurans and Argentinians.

Reality: we're signing a bunch of guys from and trained in the British isles to go with the bunch we already have.

Is this a plan to actually compete or one to keep our fan base quiet because its much harder for TFC supporters to be critical of UK based players than anyone else?

Hmmmm.

I guess the results will tell that story.

[Stress]

After some quick Twitter creeping - dude is very religious and has a hot wife.

Will be interesting to see how Bekker, Silva, and Bostock are used.

[ManUtd4ever]

Reality: we're signing a bunch of guys from and trained in the British isles to go with the bunch we already have.


The majority of them are on loan and available immediately, which is prudent given the circumstances. TFC is not committed to them long term, and Payne can make the appropriate decision regarding their futures in Toronto in due course based on how they integrate with the team.

It will take time to assemble the roster that will inevitably comprise the nucleus of our squad moving forward due to external factors, especially with respect to the South American players that Payne has identified. I have no doubt that TFC will vigorously pursue those options once those players are absolved of the contractual obligations with their existing clubs.

In the interim, Payne and Nelsen are doing whatever they can to assemble a roster that can compete based on the connections they have in the industry.

[Ultra & Proud]

Is this a plan to actually compete or one to keep our fan base quiet because its much harder for TFC supporters to be critical of UK based players than anyone else?

Hmmmm.

I guess the results will tell that story.
Yeah because no one on these boards or who follow the team ever go on about our old UK fetish and subsequent shite players we get from there.

I believe it took about 5 minutes after TFC announced Nelsen was flying back to London to tie up loose ends and scout before the whining started.

[Canary10]

So we assumed Payne would be adding Latin flair based on his history at DCU and all the talk of Hondurans and Argentinians.

Reality: we're signing a bunch of guys from and trained in the British isles to go with the bunch we already have.

Is this a plan to actually compete or one to keep our fan base quiet because its much harder for TFC supporters to be critical of UK based players than anyone else?

Hmmmm.

I guess the results will tell that story.

I think it's a plan to buy time until he can get in the players he wants.

[Kaz]

You know we have Earnshaw on the roster, right?

Until July.

If Koev is healthy you keep Koev on... let Earnshaw continue his journey, If Koev isn't healthy and Earnshaw is producing well then you have an option to keep him. If you have the Argentinian you may not keep Earnshaw, if you don't you might.

Earnshaw is hear as a bandaid to a few problems. he can help heal them, and he can hold on for a bit if needed. He is here to replace Hassili.

[v00d00daddy]

The majority of them are on loan and available immediately, which is prudent given the circumstances. TFC is not committed to them long term, and Payne can make the appropriate decision regarding their futures in Toronto in due course based on how they integrate with the team.

It will take time to assemble the roster that will inevitably comprise the nucleus of our squad moving forward due to external factors, especially with respect to the South American players that Payne has identified. I have no doubt that TFC will vigorously pursue those options once those players are absolved of the contractual obligations with their existing clubs.

In the interim, Payne and Nelsen are doing whatever they can to assemble a roster that can compete based on the connections they have in the industry.

That may be true but doesn't Payne have latin connections in the industry? How did he get players for DCU? Why are they not an option for temporary loan deals?


Yeah because no one on these boards or who follow the team ever go on about our old UK fetish and subsequent shite players we get from there.

I believe it took about 5 minutes after TFC announced Nelsen was flying back to London to tie up loose ends and scout before the whining started.

There are a few of us that "whine"
about the "fetish" but the vast majority of TFC supporters are followers of the EPL and lower UK leagues.

I've also heard plenty of "whining" about Latin and other euro players in the last 6 years.

All I'm saying is that the roster we thought we might see based on Paynes history and based on rumours doesn't seem to be materialising.

Manuforever made a pretty good argument for why that is.

We shall see I guess.

[DangerRed]

Yeah because no one on these boards or who follow the team ever go on about our old UK fetish and subsequent shite players we get from there.

I believe it took about 5 minutes after TFC announced Nelsen was flying back to London to tie up loose ends and scout before the whining started.

I've made a promise to myself this season: I'll only whine about results. They can go and dig up players anywhere they please.

[tfcleeds]

The other issue is that the S. American players Payne has identified simply aren't available right now due to contractual obligations or other issues. He has stated that the summer will be when we really see the core of the club going forward begin to take shape. This season is going to be about constant roster tweaking, while trying to maintain a competitive balance. Based on the players they've brought in so far, and how they're going about it (loan deals, so they can take a 'wait and see' approach) I think there is reason to be hopeful.

[Oldtimer]

That may be true but doesn't Payne have latin connections in the industry? How did he get players for DCU? Why are they not an option for temporary loan deals?


I know compared to the schmucks who ran this club before this will seem revolutionary, but Payne hired real scouts for DCU. I'm pretty sure DCU wouldn't be happy if their employees were being used by another club without their permission.

[Derko]

I've made a promise to myself this season: I'll only whine about results. They can go and dig up players anywhere they please.

Here Here

[ManUtd4ever]

That may be true but doesn't Payne have latin connections in the industry? How did he get players for DCU? Why are they not an option for temporary loan deals?


My guess is that Payne wants to sign the latin players he has identified to longer term contracts as opposed to short term loans. For example, the young Argentinian striker Urruti has been reported to be on Payne's radar as a DP.

The current roster is not indicative of what will be in place after the summer transfer window. By then we will have a clearer picture of the type of roster that Payne and Nelsen are capable of assembling.

[burlington Red]

So we assumed Payne would be adding Latin flair based on his history at DCU and all the talk of Hondurans and Argentinians.

Reality: we're signing a bunch of guys from and trained in the British isles to go with the bunch we already have.

Is this a plan to actually compete or one to keep our fan base quiet because its much harder for TFC supporters to be critical of UK based players than anyone else?

Hmmmm.

I guess the results will tell that story.

Think we are looking at immediate short term coverage with an eye on the bigger picture.Bringing these loans players in is a go at getting us stability as to when such time we can start adding the players we see ourselves building future teams around. We are kind of in survival mode right now, and bringing in players from PL who have more of (not guaranteed mind you) a chance of immediately intergrating into our team. Latin players can have problems adjusting and we kind of need immediate returns on whomever we bring in. Payne has said he is waiting until summer time for his players, I think we will know then the people the team will be built around, as opposed to now where we probably have quite a few band aid type players.

[Richard]

As long as the player is bringing value for money then where they are from is moot, there is good value throughout the world and to think SA is the only place to look is foolish. As long as players can communicate the country of origin shouldnt matter, just international slot considerations and what the player is.

Yes of course the UK is generally overpriced, but it doesnt mean we should stop looking to find good deals.

[Oldtimer]

Bostock confirmed:

http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/showthread.php?33687-Confirmed-John-Bostock-on-loan-at-TFC

[JuliquE]

My guess is that Payne wants to sign the latin players he has identified to longer term contracts as opposed to short term loans. For example, the young Argentinian striker Urruti has been reported to be on Payne's radar as a DP.

The current roster is not indicative of what will be in place after the summer transfer window. By then we will have a clearer picture of the type of roster that Payne and Nelsen are capable of assembling.
I think that he's also looking to have the Argentinian and Hondurans on loan deals, as well, especially with the major differences in the style of play in the MLS, from what they're accustomed.

That said, you're generally on the ball. Payne seems to have his sights on a few particular signings to form the club's nucleus, but, he's going about it smartly; he doesn't have all his eggs in one basket, using loan deals for stop gap signings, as well as for longer term ones. Both sets of players will have a chance to show their stuff and change his mind, for better or worse, with this approach.

[Yohan]

Think we are looking at immediate short term coverage with an eye on the bigger picture.Bringing these loans players in is a go at getting us stability as to when such time we can start adding the players we see ourselves building future teams around. We are kind of in survival mode right now, and bringing in players from PL who have more of (not guaranteed mind you) a chance of immediately intergrating into our team. Latin players can have problems adjusting and we kind of need immediate returns on whomever we bring in. Payne has said he is waiting until summer time for his players, I think we will know then the people the team will be built around, as opposed to now where we probably have quite a few band aid type players.
All these loan players are basically on extended trial. They are a band aid solution right now, and they will be playing for a contract. Considering Ephraim's loan clause until June, I wouldn't be surprised if these guys are all on short term contract until June. Even Russell.

Kevin Payne has signings targeted for the summer. He's waiting to see what else develops before he decides who to sign

[T-boy]

Bostock?! I don't believe I'm actually going to have to cheer for an ex Swindon player. Oh goodness, I don't know what to say?! :p

[tfcleeds]

Bostock?! I don't believe I'm actually going to have to cheer for an ex Swindon player. Oh goodness, I don't know what to say?! :pWell, it was only a loan..(for Swindon).;)

[T-boy]

Well, it was only a loan..(for Swindon).;)

That makes it almost ok for me to cheer for him. I'll swallow by Oxford pride for this one! :)

[andmat]

How long did Darrel Russel sign for?

[notthesun]

I had read some things about Bostock having a bit of an ego from his days at Tottenham, but watching his interview after his signing was announced, he seems really keen and excited to be here. Obviously haven't seen him play and maybe the comments had more to do with him on the field than off, but I'm optimistic about his signing. Hope he starts tomorrow.

[andmat]

Luke Wileman ‏@LukeWileman
Ryan Nelsen says Bostock on loan til end of his Spurs contract in summer then becomes a TFC player

[Derko]

As long as the player is bringing value for money then where they are from is moot, there is good value throughout the world and to think SA is the only place to look is foolish. As long as players can communicate the country of origin shouldnt matter, just international slot considerations and what the player is.

Yes of course the UK is generally overpriced, but it doesnt mean we should stop looking to find good deals.

Very good comment that I agree with, you have to be diverified, and right now short term loans may be a good move for coverage. I would love to see some 'Latin American Flair' but if there are players available to provide cover in the interim, before we get the so called 'Latin American Flair' players, so be it. I'll just say this 'Flair' means Fuck all if you ain't winning does it.

[SKB]

My starting 11 at this point, assuming all are healthy excluding Kovermann.


Frei - G
Eckersly - RB
O'Dea - CB
Califf - CB
Morgan - LB
Gale A - DM
Ceasar - DM
Ephraim- OM
Silva - OM
Bostock - AM
Robert Earnshaw - S

[Morlesio14]

My starting 11 at this point, assuming all are healthy excluding Kovermann.


Frei - G
Eckersly - RB
O'Dea - CB
Califf - CB
Morgan - LB
Gale A - DM
Ceasar - DM
Ephraim- OM
Silva - OM
Bostock - AM
Robert Earnshaw - S

What about either Dunny or Russel in DM instead of Agboss?

[andmat]

Morlesio14 you going to the game? Also i got banned from Hf boards LOL

[v00d00daddy]

Luke Wileman ‏@LukeWileman
Ryan Nelsen says Bostock on loan til end of his Spurs contract in summer then becomes a TFC player

So he's NOT another stop gap/loan player?

He's made this team?

[JuliquE]

So he's NOT another stop gap/loan player?

He's made this team?
I wouldn't be surprised if that's the official word, in an effort to keep his confidence up. Surely, he must know that if he shits the bed, we're likely not going to keep him on, following the expiry of his loan-deal.

[Morlesio14]

Morlesio14 you going to the game? Also i got banned from Hf boards LOL

I should be banned from it by now. I won't be able to go to the game today because I'm leaving for mont trem-blant to ski. I will be going to the game in Montreal and many more at the BMO. Cheers!

[notthesun]

I watched the latest interview with Nelsen, and if that's the only place Wileman got that from, I'm not sure Nelsen means they've locked into a deal with Tottenham to make Bostock a permanent TFC player.

Nelsen basically said "I'm not exactly sure but he's a Tottenham player until his deal expires in July, so he's on loan until then, and then he comes on with us". Then in Bostock's interview, a reporter asks about the terms and says Nelsen was a bit unclear, and Bostock says "I'm not sure of the exact terms but I'm on loan until July and then we'll see, we'll progress from there".

Sounds to me like it's just a loan with an option to buy, probably the same as all the other loan deals we've made. It would make logical sense I think, unless Nelsen is that high on Bostock, why would Payne make him a permanent player when everyone else is on loan, even Earnshaw?

[Abou Sky]

I've made a promise to myself this season: I'll only whine about results. They can go and dig up players anywhere they please.

Trying to do the same, also for starting XI because I am 100% sure that Nelsen knows more about football than I do.

[moralis]

Even with the win over Sporting KC we still need more firepower up front and that Argentinian DP striker will help. Imagine him and Earnshaw up front with Luis Silva in behind. Earnshaw won't score every time we play so we need others to score like Bostock, Ephrian and Silva.

If he the Argentinian DP striker does sign he will most likely play in the BMO Field home opener against LA Galaxy.

[Ivy]

I like every single signing made by the regime. I'm really curious what kind of coin they're paying these guys though.

[Pint]

Speaking of the Argentinian striker:

Luke Wileman ‏@LukeWileman (https://twitter.com/LukeWileman) Hearing Toronto FC has made progress in potential deal for Argentine forward Maximiliano Urruti. Could be done fairly soon if all goes well

[moralis]

Don't want to jinx it, but can't wait to hear announcers say Urruti GOLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL.

By all accounts if he does sign and he is good as seen on the you tube videos and from journalists who know his game watch out. Urruti and Earnshaw up front with Silva in behind. Plus, Bostock on the right and Ephrain on the left. WOW.

http://4-2-3-1.com/2013/03/06/exclusive-toronto-fc-close-in-on-argentine-forward-maximiliano-urruti-to-be-their-next-dp/

[ag futbol]

Something is up here... It feels like we have an odd man out here somewhere in attack.

[19Barrett19]

No one is out if urruti signs we still have koevs intrl. Spot he'll return in july and we get rid of russell at that point in time. Cant wait to see tfc attack when this happens

[19Barrett19]

Could it be that Bieler from KC told urruti tfc is legit .....maybe

[andmat]

No one is out if urruti signs we still have koevs intrl. Spot he'll return in july and we get rid of russell at that point in time. Cant wait to see tfc attack when this happens

Um we have 8 spots? 9 with Koeves>
Bostock (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Bostock), Earnshaw (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Earnshaw), Eckersley (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_Eckersley_%28footballer%29), Ephraim (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hogan_Ephraim), Koevermans (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Danny_Koevermans)DL, Lambe (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reggie_Lambe), T. Morgan (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taylor_Morgan), O'Dea (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Darren_O%27Dea), Russell (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Darel_Russell)
If Urruti does sign we would have to trade for an int spot before we can sign him, Or move someone out.

[19Barrett19]

In that case get rid of t. Morgan

[Yohan]

In that case get rid of t. Morgan
better yet, loan him to NASL/USL team

[andmat]

better yet, loan him to NASL/USL team

Agbossoumonde is also a player we could trade for a Int spot for more then 10 years. if we need a spot bad,

[Yohan]

Agbossoumonde is also a player we could trade for a Int spot for more then 10 years. if we need a spot bad,
lol. 10 yrs?

[andmat]

lol. 10 yrs?

As you see from these quotes American teams trade International spots for nothing.

Gregorio was chosen by Colorado Rapids (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colorado_Rapids) with the 15th pick of the 2004 MLS SuperDraft (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2004_MLS_SuperDraft). However, he elected to try his luck in Europe, signing with English club Darlington (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Darlington_F.C.). After one year in England, Gregorio came back to the US after his rights were acquired by Real Salt Lake (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Real_Salt_Lake), then led by his former Under-17 coach, John Ellinger (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Ellinger). RSL traded a permanent international roster slot (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MLS_International_Roster_Slots) and a first-round pick in the 2007 MLS Supplemental Draft (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2007_MLS_Supplemental_Draft) to Colorado for the right to sign Gregorio.[2] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adolfo_Gregorio#cite_note-2)

Gregorio was released by Real Salt Lake during the 2006 preseason.[3] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adolfo_Gregorio#cite_note-3)


Upon graduating, Stewart was selected 19th overall in the 2002 MLS SuperDraft (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2002_MLS_SuperDraft) by Rapids. Stewart immediately earned a starting place, appearing in 23 games for the Rapids as a rookie, and adding three assists. Stewart started seven of eight games for the team in 2003, before suffering a serious knee injury that kept him out the rest of the season. Unfortunately, Stewart would suffer injury problems throughout the 2004 season as well and, combined with new competition from Nat Borchers (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nat_Borchers), he did not see any playing time.

Stewart was selected 19th overall in the 2004 MLS Expansion Draft (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2004_MLS_Expansion_Draft) by Chivas USA (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/C.D._Chivas_USA). Five days later he was traded to Real Salt Lake (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Real_Salt_Lake) for a permanent international roster slot (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MLS_International_Roster_Slots). However, Stewart was not able to come back from the injuries and was placed on the season-ending injured reserve.

Int spot for 30 years
was selected by Vancouver Whitecaps FC (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vancouver_Whitecaps_FC) as their first pick in the 2010 MLS Expansion Draft (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2010_MLS_Expansion_Draft) [2] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sanna_Nyassi#cite_note-2) but he was immediately traded to Colorado Rapids (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colorado_Rapids) for an international roster slot (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MLS_International_Roster_Slots).[3] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sanna_Nyassi#cite_note-3) On July 20 in a match versus New York Red Bulls (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_York_Red_Bulls), Nyassi scored his first MLS hat-trick and his first three goals for Colorado. His fourth goal of the season came on 29 July against Philadelphia Union (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philadelphia_Union). Strike partner Omar Cummings (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Omar_Cummings) set up Nyassi with a lovely through ball and the Gambian scored with a curling shot to put his side 2-0 up.[4] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sanna_Nyassi#cite_note-4)
Nyassi was left exposed by Colorado in the 2011 MLS Expansion Draft (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2011_MLS_Expansion_Draft) and was selected by expansion side Montreal Impact (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Montreal_Impact).[5] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sanna_Nyassi#cite_note-5)

[Morlesio14]

Taylor Morgan will be loaned and I think they may be working on a loan for him now and we could sign this Argentinian kid.

[Morlesio14]

As you see from these quotes American teams trade International spots for nothing.

Gregorio was chosen by Colorado Rapids (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colorado_Rapids) with the 15th pick of the 2004 MLS SuperDraft (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2004_MLS_SuperDraft). However, he elected to try his luck in Europe, signing with English club Darlington (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Darlington_F.C.). After one year in England, Gregorio came back to the US after his rights were acquired by Real Salt Lake (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Real_Salt_Lake), then led by his former Under-17 coach, John Ellinger (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Ellinger). RSL traded a permanent international roster slot (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MLS_International_Roster_Slots) and a first-round pick in the 2007 MLS Supplemental Draft (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2007_MLS_Supplemental_Draft) to Colorado for the right to sign Gregorio.[2] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adolfo_Gregorio#cite_note-2)

Gregorio was released by Real Salt Lake during the 2006 preseason.[3] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adolfo_Gregorio#cite_note-3)


Int spot for 30 years
Upon graduating, Stewart was selected 19th overall in the 2002 MLS SuperDraft (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2002_MLS_SuperDraft) by Rapids. Stewart immediately earned a starting place, appearing in 23 games for the Rapids as a rookie, and adding three assists. Stewart started seven of eight games for the team in 2003, before suffering a serious knee injury that kept him out the rest of the season. Unfortunately, Stewart would suffer injury problems throughout the 2004 season as well and, combined with new competition from Nat Borchers (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nat_Borchers), he did not see any playing time.

Stewart was selected 19th overall in the 2004 MLS Expansion Draft (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2004_MLS_Expansion_Draft) by Chivas USA (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/C.D._Chivas_USA). Five days later he was traded to Real Salt Lake (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Real_Salt_Lake) for a permanent international roster slot (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MLS_International_Roster_Slots). However, Stewart was not able to come back from the injuries and was placed on the season-ending injured reserve.
was selected by Vancouver Whitecaps FC (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vancouver_Whitecaps_FC) as their first pick in the 2010 MLS Expansion Draft (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2010_MLS_Expansion_Draft) [2] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sanna_Nyassi#cite_note-2) but he was immediately traded to Colorado Rapids (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colorado_Rapids) for an international roster slot (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MLS_International_Roster_Slots).[3] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sanna_Nyassi#cite_note-3) On July 20 in a match versus New York Red Bulls (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_York_Red_Bulls), Nyassi scored his first MLS hat-trick and his first three goals for Colorado. His fourth goal of the season came on 29 July against Philadelphia Union (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philadelphia_Union). Strike partner Omar Cummings (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Omar_Cummings) set up Nyassi with a lovely through ball and the Gambian scored with a curling shot to put his side 2-0 up.[4] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sanna_Nyassi#cite_note-4)
Nyassi was left exposed by Colorado in the 2011 MLS Expansion Draft (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2011_MLS_Expansion_Draft) and was selected by expansion side Montreal Impact (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Montreal_Impact).[5] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sanna_Nyassi#cite_note-5)

I'd rather either trade or loan Taylor morgan, there's no point in wasting an inter spot on a player that hardly plays. We should keep Bennett though because he has Canadian residency.

[Yohan]

As you see from these quotes American teams trade International spots for nothing.

Gregorio was chosen by Colorado Rapids (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colorado_Rapids) with the 15th pick of the 2004 MLS SuperDraft (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2004_MLS_SuperDraft). However, he elected to try his luck in Europe, signing with English club Darlington (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Darlington_F.C.). After one year in England, Gregorio came back to the US after his rights were acquired by Real Salt Lake (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Real_Salt_Lake), then led by his former Under-17 coach, John Ellinger (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Ellinger). RSL traded a permanent international roster slot (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MLS_International_Roster_Slots) and a first-round pick in the 2007 MLS Supplemental Draft (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2007_MLS_Supplemental_Draft) to Colorado for the right to sign Gregorio.[2] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adolfo_Gregorio#cite_note-2)

Gregorio was released by Real Salt Lake during the 2006 preseason.[3] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adolfo_Gregorio#cite_note-3)


Upon graduating, Stewart was selected 19th overall in the 2002 MLS SuperDraft (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2002_MLS_SuperDraft) by Rapids. Stewart immediately earned a starting place, appearing in 23 games for the Rapids as a rookie, and adding three assists. Stewart started seven of eight games for the team in 2003, before suffering a serious knee injury that kept him out the rest of the season. Unfortunately, Stewart would suffer injury problems throughout the 2004 season as well and, combined with new competition from Nat Borchers (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nat_Borchers), he did not see any playing time.

Stewart was selected 19th overall in the 2004 MLS Expansion Draft (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2004_MLS_Expansion_Draft) by Chivas USA (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/C.D._Chivas_USA). Five days later he was traded to Real Salt Lake (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Real_Salt_Lake) for a permanent international roster slot (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MLS_International_Roster_Slots). However, Stewart was not able to come back from the injuries and was placed on the season-ending injured reserve.

Int spot for 30 years
was selected by Vancouver Whitecaps FC (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vancouver_Whitecaps_FC) as their first pick in the 2010 MLS Expansion Draft (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2010_MLS_Expansion_Draft) [2] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sanna_Nyassi#cite_note-2) but he was immediately traded to Colorado Rapids (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colorado_Rapids) for an international roster slot (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MLS_International_Roster_Slots).[3] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sanna_Nyassi#cite_note-3) On July 20 in a match versus New York Red Bulls (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_York_Red_Bulls), Nyassi scored his first MLS hat-trick and his first three goals for Colorado. His fourth goal of the season came on 29 July against Philadelphia Union (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philadelphia_Union). Strike partner Omar Cummings (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Omar_Cummings) set up Nyassi with a lovely through ball and the Gambian scored with a curling shot to put his side 2-0 up.[4] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sanna_Nyassi#cite_note-4)
Nyassi was left exposed by Colorado in the 2011 MLS Expansion Draft (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2011_MLS_Expansion_Draft) and was selected by expansion side Montreal Impact (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Montreal_Impact).[5] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sanna_Nyassi#cite_note-5)
Incompetence by idiots like Ellinger and Bravo (one of worst GMs ever, like worse than MoJo) is not a good example. Also, in recent years, int spots are more valuable and don't get traded for longer than 3 yrs.

[notthesun]

A loan for T. Morgan would be nice.

If we're signing Urruti soon, Payne will probably trade for a slot, unless he loans out Morgan that quickly. If we're waiting until the summer (or we also go for those two Honduran midfielders in the summer) I think we'll probably let Russell's loan expire. Lambe is going to have to step it up to secure his future on this team; Saturday was a step in the right direction for him, he seemed better on the left than on the right.

[moralis]

Also Taylor Morgan was not on the bench for the Sporting KC, but was on the bench and played the last 15 minutes against Vancouver:

http://www.mlssoccer.com/matchcenter/2013-03-09-TOR-v-SKC/rosters

http://www.mlssoccer.com/matchcenter/2013-03-02-van-v-tor/rosters
(http://www.mlssoccer.com/matchcenter/2013-03-02-van-v-tor/rosters)
In addition, TFC still have two forwards in Ashton Bennett and Justin Braun

[Auzzy]

Taylor Morgan had an ankle injury before the KC game, that's why he was ruled out for that one. No idea if they plan to trade him (or if he would have been on the bench if healthy). I doubt there's any interest for him though within MLS. He's international for US teams as well. There's a reason he was still available for TFC to select in the 4th (!) round of the supplemental (!) draft -- even though he did well on his college team & has quite amazing physical traits. Note that teams rarely sign any of their supplemental draft picks to begin with.

Now if Taylor does very well, e.g., bags some goals coming on as a sub, or does amazing in the limited reserve league games, then that raises his stock for other teams -- but for TFC as well. Who knows, we shall see. Maybe if he plays well, there will be interest for him from overseas, in case TFC needs that international spot back.

[Yohan]

Incompetence by idiots like Ellinger and Bravo (one of worst GMs ever, like worse than MoJo) is not a good example. Also, in recent years, int spots are more valuable and don't get traded for longer than 3 yrs.
upon further research, the permanent int spot trades happened because MLS changed the int spots format. back in the day, there used to be youth int spots and senior int spots. RSL traded away permanent youth int spots (which wasn't worth much). when the new int spots rules came in, instead of a reset, RSL end up stuck with permanently giving away an int spot

as for Vancouver getting a '30 yr' int spot for Sanna Nyassi, likely be a typo as that int spot should be for 3 yrs, and never been confirmed by Colorado or Caps FO (I asked a Rapids supporter about this)

[Red CB Toronto]

With Bostock, Russell and Osario playing on Saturday, it raised the number of players who have played at least one minute for the Reds in a competitive match to 131 all-time for TFC.

[Stryker]

Based solely on the what I've read and the highlight clip I can't say I'm a fan of this move for Maximiliano Urruti. He seems to have to ability to make a nice turn and get on the right side of a defender but his size could make MLS a real problem for him. If Koev comes back and pairs with Earnshaw then where will he play? Attacking mid?
I can also see him being the type that fans would turn on quickly for not putting in the effort. My two cents.

[Oldtimer]

With Bostock, Russell and Osario playing on Saturday, it raised the number of players who have played at least one minute for the Reds in a competitive match to 131 all-time for TFC.

Collecting all the autographs must be nearly impossible by now.g:D

[Red CB Toronto]

Collecting all the autographs must be nearly impossible by now.g:D

There are also 19 players including 5 players currently on the roster and 4 emergency goalkeepers who have been an unused sub on the 18 man game roster. The overall TFC alltime roster is at 151. Yeh it has been a challenge but outside of three players from the first two seasons after getting some of the new players I will have a signed photo of everyone. The elusive ones are Sam Reynolds, Tim Regan and Abbe Ibrahim.

And you can not forget the 8 head coaches and numerous assistant coaches.

[notthesun]

Nelsen went on the MLS Extra Time podcast and talked for a bit. They asked about Earnshaw and Bostock only being on loan until the summer and Nelsen basically said "technically yes but I see them being here far beyond then".

[Lucky Strike]

Some trialists have been shown the door.

Kurtis Larson ‏@KurtLarSUN Peters is gone #TFC (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23TFC&src=hash)


Kurtis Larson ‏@KurtLarSUN Hustedt also gone #TFC (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23TFC&src=hash)

[andmat]

Some trialists have been shown the door.

Kurtis Larson ‏@KurtLarSUNPeters is gone #TFC (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23TFC&src=hash)


Kurtis Larson ‏@KurtLarSUNHustedt also gone #TFC (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23TFC&src=hash)

Whois left on Trial? with the team.

[Lucky Strike]

Beaulieu-Bourgault is at least one of them, we signed Bostock (obviously). Don't really remember the others. I'm sure it's in the latter pages of the off-season movement thread.

Kurtis Larson ‏@KurtLarSUN He's in today's game. #TFC (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23TFC&src=hash) “@thesportingway (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/thesportingway): @KurtLarSUN (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/KurtLarSUN) Is Jonathan B-B training, saw him after the game with some of the Reds?”

[19Barrett19]

I have a feeling that bostock is the real deal. He seems to be a dero type can play multiple positions cam lm rm cm. If he can be anything close to deros calibler I will be happy to have im play in a red kit for years to come.

[Greatest Ripoff]

Beaulieu-Bourgault is at least one of them, we signed Bostock (obviously). Don't really remember the others. I'm sure it's in the latter pages of the off-season movement thread.

Kurtis Larson ‏@KurtLarSUNHe's in today's game. #TFC (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23TFC&src=hash) “@thesportingway (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/thesportingway): @KurtLarSUN (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/KurtLarSUN) Is Jonathan B-B training, saw him after the game with some of the Reds?”

Ryan Richter and Lance Rozeboom.

[Greatest Ripoff]

Toronto FC ‏@torontofc (https://twitter.com/torontofc)
#TFC (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23TFC&src=hash) training update: Onstad & O'Leary in Argentina, player signing announcement may come soon. - Kevin Payne. #TFClive (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23TFClive&src=hash)

[Oldtimer]

Toronto FC ‏@torontofc (https://twitter.com/torontofc)
#TFC (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23TFC&src=hash) training update: Onstad & O'Leary in Argentina, player signing announcement may come soon. - Kevin Payne. #TFClive (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23TFClive&src=hash)


:scarf:

[Lucky Strike]

Right, thanks Ripoff!

Also to put more precision on the "soon" in TFC's twitter update:

Kurtis Larson ‏@KurtLarSUNPayne: new signing likely in last day or two #TFC (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23TFC&src=hash)

[Greatest Ripoff]

Beaulieu-Bourgault is at least one of them, we signed Bostock (obviously). Don't really remember the others. I'm sure it's in the latter pages of the off-season movement thread.

Kurtis Larson ‏@KurtLarSUNHe's in today's game. #TFC (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23TFC&src=hash) “@thesportingway (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/thesportingway): @KurtLarSUN (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/KurtLarSUN) Is Jonathan B-B training, saw him after the game with some of the Reds?”

Also JBB is playing for TFC today in a reserve match against Notre Dame.

[Lucky Strike]

In other news that could prove to be just as important as a player signing:

Kurtis Larson ‏@KurtLarSUN Payne confirmed they are looking to renegotiate contracts. Said he's confident one will be renegotiated. #TFC (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23TFC&src=hash)

[andmat]

In other news that could prove to be just as important as a player signing:

Kurtis Larson ‏@KurtLarSUNPayne confirmed they are looking to renegotiate contracts. Said he's confident one will be renegotiated. #TFC (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23TFC&src=hash)

I think he means the Ecks Contract, He does not deserve that much money.

[andmat]

Where does Wiedeman fit on this team? is he even gonna get a chance to play with tfc?

[Red I]

I think he means the Ecks Contract, He does not deserve that much money.

Yep, definitely. Take Frings' lead and do the right thing, bud. If you want to play with a winning team, this is the reality of MLS you have to understand.

[ryan]

Maybe he means DK's?

[Pint]

With the likely forward coming in we now are at the point where Braun may never see the pitch. Earnshaw, Urruti, Morgan, Bennett, Welshmen etc can all play up front and are either better or on much better contracts. Wouldn't mind using Braun trade bait (pick, or intl spot)

[andmat]

With the likely forward coming in we now are at the point where Braun may never see the pitch. Earnshaw, Urruti, Morgan, Bennett, Welshmen etc can all play up front and are either better or on much better contracts. Wouldn't mind using Braun trade bait (pick, or intl spot)

Yep Same with Wiedeman I can see them asking for more Allocation money also.

[ManUtd4ever]

If Koevs can return to form at some point this season we are going to be stacked up front.

[Morlesio14]

Toronto FC ‏@torontofc (https://twitter.com/torontofc)
#TFC (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23TFC&src=hash) training update: Onstad & O'Leary in Argentina, player signing announcement may come soon. - Kevin Payne. #TFClive (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23TFClive&src=hash)


:) a top notch striker.

[gdg_9]

In other news that could prove to be just as important as a player signing:

Kurtis Larson ‏@KurtLarSUNPayne confirmed they are looking to renegotiate contracts. Said he's confident one will be renegotiated. #TFC (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23TFC&src=hash)


I think he means the Ecks Contract, He does not deserve that much money.


Maybe he means DK's?



I could see it being Braun.
There's no way he's worth the $100k+ he made last year.

I could see him taking less salary per year, in exchange for adding an extra year on his contract to prove himself and try to extend his career.

After the disaster season he just had, if he doesn't do anything this year and his current contract just runs out, that could effectively end his career.

[DangerRed]

I still think you're going to see Danny K bought out before April 15, especially with Earnshaw and this new Argentine DP in the picture. As for Weeds and others, yes, they'll be relegated to depth status -- and there's nothing wrong with that. If this is finally the year when this team becomes competitive, they'll want to stick around.

[Oldtimer]

Kurtis Larson ‏@KurtLarSUN Nelsen on Earnshaw/Bostock "loans" 'till July" Don't think that's accurate. Both I think will be here longer." (Via @ExtraTimeRadio) #TFC (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23TFC&src=hash)

[Canary10]

I still think you're going to see Danny K bought out before April 15, especially with Earnshaw and this new Argentine DP in the picture. As for Weeds and others, yes, they'll be relegated to depth status -- and there's nothing wrong with that. If this is finally the year when this team becomes competitive, they'll want to stick around.

We already bought out Frings. Can you buy two DPs out in a year? (ed: or does it still count as a DP buyout if the player retires? Maybe it doesn't count in MLS rules).

Interesting that what we're hearing is about money and renegotiating contracts as opposed to dropping players. With all our internationals, I thought moving a player or two would be more important. Maybe we have a few international spaces we don't know of?

[Joe Kool]

Kurtis Larson ‏@KurtLarSUN Nelsen on Earnshaw/Bostock "loans" 'till July" Don't think that's accurate. Both I think will be here longer." (Via @ExtraTimeRadio) #TFC (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23TFC&src=hash)

When Nelsen spoke about Earnshaw he said on loan until July then we will see. When he spoke about Bostock he said on loan until July then he will become a TFC player. I kind of read that as Bostock has already indicated he wants to be in MLS long term and Earnshaw is more of a wait and see how it goes. Hopefully both will work out and be here long term.

[flamehawk]

We already bought out Frings. Can you buy two DPs out in a year? (ed: or does it still count as a DP buyout if the player retires? Maybe it doesn't count in MLS rules).

Interesting that what we're hearing is about money and renegotiating contracts as opposed to dropping players. With all our internationals, I thought moving a player or two would be more important. Maybe we have a few international spaces we don't know of?

Retirement does not count as a buyout; so, we have one buyout left. That said, I hope we don't buyout Kovermans .. let him have his chance at getting his shirt on the wall.

[DangerRed]

We already bought out Frings. Can you buy two DPs out in a year? (ed: or does it still count as a DP buyout if the player retires? Maybe it doesn't count in MLS rules).

Interesting that what we're hearing is about money and renegotiating contracts as opposed to dropping players. With all our internationals, I thought moving a player or two would be more important. Maybe we have a few international spaces we don't know of?

I think the retirement doesn't count as a buyout, and that's why the club and Frings decided to go that route. It still let's them buy out Danny K if the stars don't look like they're aligning for his recovery. And buying him out is obviously only made that much more attractive by the fact he's not Canadian.

[Pigfynn]

We already bought out Frings. Can you buy two DPs out in a year? (ed: or does it still count as a DP buyout if the player retires? Maybe it doesn't count in MLS rules).

Interesting that what we're hearing is about money and renegotiating contracts as opposed to dropping players. With all our internationals, I thought moving a player or two would be more important. Maybe we have a few international spaces we don't know of?


How could that possibly be? ;)

[ManUtd4ever]

I don't know if I'd support a buyout of Koevs. He's the only DP we've ever signed that earned every penny of his salary, and in my opinion, he deserves the opportunity to try and reinvigorate his career in Toronto. It's a tough call.

[Skinn]

I still think you're going to see Danny K bought out before April 15, especially with Earnshaw and this new Argentine DP in the picture. As for Weeds and others, yes, they'll be relegated to depth status -- and there's nothing wrong with that. If this is finally the year when this team becomes competitive, they'll want to stick around.

Even if we did/could by him out by then, his contract would still count against the cap (deadline for that was early March). So don't see the merits at this point.

[KGH]

Even if we did/could by him out by then, his contract would still count against the cap (deadline for that was early March). So don't see the merits at this point.

You are correct sir

(D) BUYOUT OF GUARANTEED CONTRACT
Teams may have the ability to buyout one guaranteed player as follows:


A Team may buy out one (1) guaranteed player (including a DP’s) contract during the off-season and free up the corresponding budget space. Such a buyout is at the particular MLS Team’s own expense.

A Team may not free up budget space with a buyout of a player’s salary budget charge during the season. Such a buyout will be conducted by the League and count on a Club’s budget in a manner consistent with current MLS guidelines.

[T-boy]

I could see them successfully renegotiating Ecks contract down quite a few thousand. Ecks clearly likes being in Toronto and has settled. I can imagine he would accept lower wages just so he can keep playing here and being a success. If he went back to the UK right now he wouldn't be guaranteed a first team place and would have to restart his career. Meanwhile no other MLS team is going to trade for him at his price. They could probably knock $100,000 off his salary and he would be happy, I'm sure.

[DangerRed]

Even if we did/could by him out by then, his contract would still count against the cap (deadline for that was early March). So don't see the merits at this point.

I think the international slot, to be used on someone who for sure will be fit for the next two months and well beyond -- unlike Danny, who may or may not be fit by June, and who knows in what form -- is plenty enough merit for this. I'm not slagging Danny, he's done well for us, but he's hurt and if we're talking about what's best for the club, it's to use that international slot on someone else. Unless, of course, we have some international slots we're not aware of. :)

[ryan]

I could see them successfully renegotiating Ecks contract down quite a few thousand. Ecks clearly likes being in Toronto and has settled. I can imagine he would accept lower wages just so he can keep playing here and being a success. If he went back to the UK right now he wouldn't be guaranteed a first team place and would have to restart his career. Meanwhile no other MLS team is going to trade for him at his price. They could probably knock $100,000 off his salary and he would be happy, I'm sure.

I don't think he'd be happy by any stretch, who's gonna be happy about something like that?

Yes it would be more fair to his value though, I do agree.

[ManUtd4ever]

I could see them successfully renegotiating Ecks contract down quite a few thousand. Ecks clearly likes being in Toronto and has settled. I can imagine he would accept lower wages just so he can keep playing here and being a success. If he went back to the UK right now he wouldn't be guaranteed a first team place and would have to restart his career. Meanwhile no other MLS team is going to trade for him at his price. They could probably knock $100,000 off his salary and he would be happy, I'm sure.

Perhaps a lower salary for an extended term to compensate. That being said, Ecks has been outstanding this season.

[Skinn]

I think the international slot, to be used on someone who for sure will be fit for the next two months and well beyond -- unlike Danny, who may or may not be fit by June, and who knows in what form -- is plenty enough merit for this. I'm not slagging Danny, he's done well for us, but he's hurt and if we're talking about what's best for the club, it's to use that international slot on someone else. Unless, of course, we have some international slots we're not aware of. :)

Fair enough. But I think if the club were thinking about buying him out, they would have wanted to maximize the result of doing that by doing it before the cap-hit deadline. Appears to me they're hopeful Danny can contribute something in the second half. In terms of freeing up an international spot, I think we're more likely to see T. Morgan go out on loan (or be released) or the club acquire an international spot.

[Oldtimer]

I'm pretty sure that they've decided to let Koevs play out his final year with the club. He'll probably be gone after that, so it won't affect 2014, which is the year that Payne is aiming at to finish his rebuild. They aren't seriously aiming to win the MLS Cup this year, just to be reasonably competitive by the end.

[T-boy]

I don't think he'd be happy by any stretch, who's gonna be happy about something like that?

Yes it would be more fair to his value though, I do agree.

Knowing that either he won't be picked up by any other MLS team on his current salary, OR he has to start over his career with zero reputation back in Europe, he may well sign up for lower salary just to guarantee he stays with the club. Last I heard he has a Canadian girlfriend, so I'm pretty sure he wants to stay here long term.

[gdg_9]

CONFIRMED BY NEIL DAVIDSON (CP Reporter)

TFC "says they have 9 (Int'l Spots) and are currently using 8."


There we go.
Not sure where they got the 9th spot from, but I sure won't complain!



(By the way, the 8 spots in use are: T. Morgan, Earnshaw, Bostock, Ephraim, Ecks, O'Dea, Lambe, Russell.
Koev's does not count while injured, but would take up the final spot upon his return)

[Huyton]

I had wondered about signing an Argentinian, as I thought that the international transfer window was closed.

So, I looked it up, and here is what Wikipedia says, in case anyone else is similarly curious:

The transfer window is the period during the year in which a football club (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Football_club) can transfer (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Transfer_(football)) players from other countries into their playing staff. Such a transfer is completed by registering the player into the new club through FIFA. "Transfer window" is the unofficial term commonly used by the media for the concept of "registration period" as described in the FIFA Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Player.[1] (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/#cite_note-1) According to the rules, each national football association decides on the time (such as the dates) of the 'window' but it may not exceed 12 weeks. The second registration period occurs during the season and may not exceed four weeks.
The transfer window of a given football association governs only international transfers into that football association. International transfers out of an association are always possible to those associations that have an open window. The transfer window of the association that the player is leaving does not have to be open.

[mowe]

Yeah Koev still has value for this team. Even if Earnshaw turns out to be a regular goalscorer we'd still have no other proven MLS scorers on this team. Injury or international duty would leave us thin up front. We could have some good competition for the attacking positions with Urruti, Silva, Bekker, and Bostock in the mix.

I'm still worried about the midfield though. Hopefully Cesar lives up to his billing but Payne is probably looking to bring in reinforcements during the summer. A quality box-to-box mid (Peralta?) would help this team a lot.

[moralis]

If all goes well that Argentinian DP striker will take that 9th international roster spot. Hope Russell and Taylor Morgan are both loaned, so we can get another two international roster spots. Remember, still waiting on news from the two Honduran players.

[notthesun]

Larson (https://twitter.com/KurtLarSUN/status/311498445443710976): "Payne: Hogan on loan... Both Bostock and Earnshaw permanent deals with options to extend past summer."

I can see us letting one of Ephraim or Lambe go by the summer, depending on which does better.

I'm just curious about our lineup if we sign Urruti. Surely if we think he's DP quality he's going to be a starter whenever he's 100% fit? And he seems best suited to a ST or CF role. Also taking into account here Payne's quote above and Nelsen saying on the MLS podcast he expects Bostock and Earnshaw to be with the team on more of a longer term. So Urruti would either...

a) Move Earnshaw to the bench and play ST.
b) Move Silva to the bench and play CF.

I'm all for depth, lord knows we've needed that over the years, but I'm also for getting the best out of the players we have. Being forced to sit one of these guys every week doesn't seem like great management of resources.

I don't know. Bostock's got RM. Move Silva to LM and drop Ephraim/Lambe to the bench while Urruti takes the CF role? Or could they be planning on using Urruti as a full time LM?

[notthesun]

A quality box-to-box mid (Peralta?) would help this team a lot.

Think that ship has sailed. Alfredo Mejia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alfredo_Mej%C3%ADa) was the latest workhorse Honduran midfielder we were supposedly looking at.

[Ultra & Proud]

If it all works out as it seems to be going then we should have our best squad, on paper at least, ever.

-------------Bendik/Frei--------------
--Eckersley--Califf--O'Dea--A.Morgan--
-------------Cesar-------------------
--Bostock------Silva------Ephraim----
---------Earnshaw--------------------
----------------Urruti-----------------

Bench: Bendik/Frei, Russell, Osorio, Bekker, Lambe, Gale A., Emory, Hall, Dunfield, Henry, Wiedeman, Braun.

[andmat]

CONFIRMED BY NEIL DAVIDSON (CP Reporter)

TFC "says they have 9 (Int'l Spots) and are currently using 8."


There we go.
Not sure where they got the 9th spot from, but I sure won't complain!



(By the way, the 8 spots in use are: T. Morgan, Earnshaw, Bostock, Ephraim, Ecks, O'Dea, Lambe, Russell.
Koev's does not count while injured, but would take up the final spot upon his return)

I do not see how the have 9 spots? We had 2 SJ Inti spots One expired at


2013-01-01



The other Int spot Expired this at the end of this year wich we traded to Vancouver Shit Caps.

Can someone Please ask how do we have that 9th Int spot from?

[Nestease]

http://sports.ca.msn.com/top-stories/toronto-fc-close-to-signing-south-american


President Kevin Payne says assistant coach Fran O'Leary and chief scout Pat Onstad are both currently in Argentina...


"We're pretty close to announcing a new signing. I hope it will happen in the next day or two," Payne told reporters after practice Tuesday. "And there's a couple of other players we're looking at as well that we think will really help us...



Payne says the South American recruit — 22-year-old Maximiliano Urruti of Newells Old Boys is reportedly a TFC target — could be a designated player. "Possibly. We're trying to figure out if there's a way for us to do him now and not necessarily make him a DP or possibly have the option to decide later in the year whether he's a DP. "But he would be DP level. Whether he's actually a DP or not, we maybe have some flexibility there..."


Toronto FC currently has nine international slots on its roster and is using eight, so it has one available...


Manager Ryan Nelsen declined to identify what area he wants to strengthen....


Payne says the club is also looking at renegotiating one or two contracts...


"It's safe to say we'll end up with at least one contract renegotiated," he said. "But we've made some progress on the cap and we expect to make more."
The idea would be to have a player agree to a lesser amount this year, perhaps in exchange for a longer deal...


English winger John Bostock is on a short-term contract with Toronto, with club options after that. "So we'll talk with John. We'll see how we feel," Payne said. "But obviously based on the first game, based on everything we've seen, we certainly hope that John will be with us for the full season and hopefully beyond that." Payne said the club would speak to Bostock prior to exercising any option to "make sure he's enjoying his football here..."


Earnshaw has a six-month contract, with Toronto's option to extend for the balance of the calendar year, as well as two more one-year options. Attacking midfielder Hogan Ephraim is slightly different in that he is on loan from Queens Park Rangers with the English club still owning his contract "so we don't entirely control that situation," Payne added...

[andmat]

Toronto FC acquired one slot from San Jose Earthquakes on July 14, 2011. TFC has use of this spot through the end of the 2012 season, at which point it reverts to San Jose. Earlier, Toronto FC had acquired an additional spot from San Jose on July 14, 2008 for use through the end of the 2013 season.

What am I missing ??? Can't figure the 9th spot out.

[DangerRed]

Yeah Koev still has value for this team. Even if Earnshaw turns out to be a regular goalscorer we'd still have no other proven MLS scorers on this team. Injury or international duty would leave us thin up front. We could have some good competition for the attacking positions with Urruti, Silva, Bekker, and Bostock in the mix.



Right - Danny's injured right now, for which the solution is to bring on the young Argentine DP to play alongside/instead of Earnshaw as needed. And this Argentine can ONLY come here because Danny's injured. He will take the last and final int'l slot, normally taken by Danny, who's not using it up precisely because he's injured. Once Danny is healthy, TFC will be one over on the international side. I think we're way less likely to dish a younger up-and-comer than to use our buyout on Danny. The writing is pretty clearly on the wall.

[Oldtimer]

Payne interview now up on TFC-TV, covers the stuff summarized in the MSN article:

http://www.torontofc.ca/video/2013/03/12/kevin-payne-march-12-2013

[Ultra & Proud]

Right - Danny's injured right now, for which the solution is to bring on the young Argentine DP to play alongside/instead of Earnshaw as needed. And this Argentine can ONLY come here because Danny's injured. He will take the last and final int'l slot, normally taken by Danny, who's not using it up precisely because he's injured. Once Danny is healthy, TFC will be one over on the international side. I think we're way less likely to dish a younger up-and-comer than to use our buyout on Danny. The writing is pretty clearly on the wall.
Since we didn't buy him out by the March 5th deadline and it'll count against the cap anyway then I don't see Koevermans leaving unless he retires or just can't go when expected. I think the end game will be Koeverman's health vs. keeping Ephraim past the loan expiry vs. Lambe continuing to play well enough to warrant that roster spot vs us trading a supplemental pick or a dead weight player to someone for their int. spot.

[ag futbol]

Credit to Neil Davidson. He's one of the good ones in terms of reporting what people want to hear about.

[gdg_9]

Credit to Neil Davidson. He's one of the good ones in terms of reporting what people want to hear about.

Agreed!

When he reported this morning that TFC were close to signing the player in Argentina, I tweeted him and asked about the Int'l spot.

He replied to me saying he would ask the team.

Lo and behold, just a couple hours later he replied telling me TFC says they have 9 Int'l Spots.


Great reporting and fan interaction!
Hope he keeps up the good work!

[cochrdoc]

We need Eks and Lambe to get citizenship so we can bring in those international players.Other teams are getting them for their international players.We need to get aboard.The British players can still maintain their British one as well.I am not sure about Lambe .I am not sure why we signed Taylor Morgan as we have alot of people who can play striker.

[Abou Sky]

If it all works out as it seems to be going then we should have our best squad, on paper at least, ever.

-------------Bendik/Frei--------------
--Eckersley--Califf--O'Dea--A.Morgan--
-------------Cesar-------------------
--Bostock------Silva------Ephraim----
---------Earnshaw--------------------
----------------Urruti-----------------

Bench: Bendik/Frei, Russell, Osorio, Bekker, Lambe, Gale A., Emory, Hall, Dunfield, Henry, Wiedeman, Braun.

hehehehe

I actually giggled out loud when I looked at that...

The really amazing thing is that we would even have some depth!

Still counting on a loss this weekend, I am only going to be pleasantly surprised this year! I have a show to do this weekend but man I wish I could go!!!

[Auzzy]

Payne interview now up on TFC-TV, covers the stuff summarized in the MSN article:

http://www.torontofc.ca/video/2013/03/12/kevin-payne-march-12-2013

This is definitely worth a listen. Lots of precise info there, about the contract details for some of the new guys & much more.

[TFC07]

We need Eks and Lambe to get citizenship so we can bring in those international players.Other teams are getting them for their international players.We need to get aboard.The British players can still maintain their British one as well.I am not sure about Lambe .I am not sure why we signed Taylor Morgan as we have alot of people who can play striker.

I believe Ecks can get his Canadian residency early next year while Lambe has to wait for 2015.

[Morlesio14]

If it all works out as it seems to be going then we should have our best squad, on paper at least, ever.

-------------Bendik/Frei--------------
--Eckersley--Califf--O'Dea--A.Morgan--
-------------Cesar-------------------
--Bostock------Silva------Ephraim----
---------Earnshaw--------------------
----------------Urruti-----------------

Bench: Bendik/Frei, Russell, Osorio, Bekker, Lambe, Gale A., Emory, Hall, Dunfield, Henry, Wiedeman, Braun.

Loaning T Morgan would be a blessing. I would switch earnshaw and maxi (urutti)

[Greatest Ripoff]

LI would switch earnshaw and maxi (urutti)

yeah based on what was in KJ's article is sounds like this could be better. Also, Earnshaw is definitely someone who likes to play of the shoulder of the last defender and I don't think he would be as effective playing a little deeper.

"ESPN South American columnist Sam Kelly, who hosts the excellent Hand Of Pod (http://handofpod.wordpress.com/), issued similar sentiments, saying: “Urruti’s decent enough, but at 22 he’s only played about 30-odd first team games for Newell’s so far – which doesn’t seem like many for Argentina – and hasn’t exactly been tearing up trees as far as his scoring record is concerned. Good movement and link play, though, and he could do well playing as a second forward."

[notthesun]

Payne interview now up on TFC-TV, covers the stuff summarized in the MSN article:

http://www.torontofc.ca/video/2013/03/12/kevin-payne-march-12-2013

Interesting that he says they're exploring the possibility of signing Urruti as a non-DP.

[Morlesio14]

Interesting that he says they're exploring the possibility of signing Urruti as a non-DP.

If we sign Maxi as a non dp. We have 2 open DP spots. Any American players to sign as a DP?

[Morlesio14]

Who else is slowly seeing the team come together and become a decent team?

[Detroit_TFC]

Who else is slowly seeing the team come together and become a decent team?

Still trying to wrap my head around us having 3 players (and spread down the field too O'Dea, Bostock, Earnshaw!) and coach Nelsen in the Week 2 MLS Team of the Week. Throw a productive young Argentine striker into this mix, that could be interesting.

[Skinn]

Right - Danny's injured right now, for which the solution is to bring on the young Argentine DP to play alongside/instead of Earnshaw as needed. And this Argentine can ONLY come here because Danny's injured. He will take the last and final int'l slot, normally taken by Danny, who's not using it up precisely because he's injured. Once Danny is healthy, TFC will be one over on the international side. I think we're way less likely to dish a younger up-and-comer than to use our buyout on Danny. The writing is pretty clearly on the wall.

Not clear at all.

[moralis]

If your interested Maximiliano Urruti will be on the bench for 8:30 P.M. as Newell's Old Boys vs. Univesidade de Chile in the Copa Libertadores:

http://www.firstrow1.eu/watch/174523/1/watch-universidad-chile-vs-newells-old-boys.html

http://espnfc.com/scores/_/league/conmebol.libertadores/copa-libertadores?cc=5901

https://twitter.com/CANOBoficial

Could be his last game. Newell's Old Boys don't play again until Sunday when they face River Plate at home.

http://espnfc.com/scores/_/league/arg.1/date/20130310/primera-division-de-argentina?cc=5901

[Morlesio14]

If it all works out as it seems to be going then we should have our best squad, on paper at least, ever.

-------------Bendik/Frei--------------
--Eckersley--Califf--O'Dea--A.Morgan--
-------------Cesar-------------------
--Bostock------Silva------Ephraim----
---------Earnshaw--------------------
----------------Urruti-----------------

Bench: Bendik/Frei, Russell, Osorio, Bekker, Lambe, Gale A., Emory, Hall, Dunfield, Henry, Wiedeman, Braun.

where would our 2 dp spots go?????

[DangerRed]

Who else is slowly seeing the team come together and become a decent team?

I know what you're saying, and I'm starting to feel it, but I've gotten excited by this team too many times before only to be burned. I'd like to see us beat Montreal (or at least scratch out a draw) before I get really pumped for what's in store.

[Abou Sky]

Right - Danny's injured right now, for which the solution is to bring on the young Argentine DP to play alongside/instead of Earnshaw as needed. And this Argentine can ONLY come here because Danny's injured. He will take the last and final int'l slot, normally taken by Danny, who's not using it up precisely because he's injured. Once Danny is healthy, TFC will be one over on the international side. I think we're way less likely to dish a younger up-and-comer than to use our buyout on Danny. The writing is pretty clearly on the wall.

We can't buyout DK until the offseason so that isn't going to happen.

Why would they get rid of DK before some of the other internationals?

[Morlesio14]

We can't buyout DK until the offseason so that isn't going to happen.

Why would they get rid of DK before some of the other internationals?

loan taylor morgan

[SKB]

TFC will have to open up 3 international positions over the next couple of months. As was pointed above with the Urutti signing when KM comes off the injury list we need to open an international position up. However, Payne said two more signings were coming right after Urutti. This I assume is the Honduras connection, so this represents 2 more international positions.

Here is the keeper list:
Eckersly
O'Dea
Earnshaw
Bostock
Kovermann (assume club will keep him for this season)

Add:
Urutti
Honduras 1
Honduras 2

Therefore can only keep 1 of the next 4 players. Who would you keep?
Ephraim
Lambe
T. Morgan
Russell.

Could potentially loan out a player but either way they need to be moved off the active roster. As someone pointed out above T. Morgan would be a good loan out candidate.

[Red CB Toronto]

JTFC will have to open up 3 international positions over the next couple of months. As was pointed above with the Urutti signing then when KM comes off the injury list we need to open an international position up. However, Payne said two more signings were coming right after Urutti. This I assume is the Honduras connection, so this represents 2 more international positions.

Here is the keeper list:
Eckersly
O'Dea
Earnshaw
Bostock
Kovermann (assume club will keep him for this season)

Add:
Urutti
Honduras 1
Honduras 2

Therefore can only keep 1 of the next 4 players. Who would you keep.
Ephraim
Lambe
T. Morgan
Russell.

Could potentially loan out a player but either way they need to be moved off the active roster. As someone pointed out above T. Morgan would be a good loan out candidate.

I agree, Taylor Morgan is the first prime candidate for a loan out as a young player, maybe somewhere in the NASL or USL to get some pro seasoning. Darel Russell is also one of the first to go as he is a an older guy who has been bouncing around at the League One level in England the last few years. Ephraim is a different deal since TFC does not have complete control with his fate.

[jloome]

TFC will have to open up 3 international positions over the next couple of months. As was pointed above with the Urutti signing when KM comes off the injury list we need to open an international position up. However, Payne said two more signings were coming right after Urutti. This I assume is the Honduras connection, so this represents 2 more international positions.

Here is the keeper list:
Eckersly
O'Dea
Earnshaw
Bostock
Kovermann (assume club will keep him for this season)

Add:
Urutti
Honduras 1
Honduras 2

Therefore can only keep 1 of the next 4 players. Who would you keep?
Ephraim
Lambe
T. Morgan
Russell.

Could potentially loan out a player but either way they need to be moved off the active roster. As someone pointed out above T. Morgan would be a good loan out candidate.

Knowing how KP has worked up until now and the volatility in signing players from South America, I wouldn't be surprsied at all if Urutti wasn't really their target.