The Jeremy Brockie thread

[Yohan]

http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/wellingtonphoenix/news-display/Brockie%20Joins%20Toronto%20On%20Loan/66774

Loan until Aug. Article seems to say some sort of partnership is formed between TFC and Wellington

[Morlesio14]

Well not many good players come from the A league so if he doesn't play too well, I wouldn't be surprised.

[Red CB Toronto]

Brockie is no stranger to BMO Field having played here twice during the U20 World Cup for New Zealand.

http://beta.usatodaysportsimages.com/image/thumb/600-600/2198227.jpg

http://beta.usatodaysportsimages.com/image/thumb/600-600/2209018.jpg

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[nztfc]

Hey guys, I'll admit I've only started supporting TFC since Nelsen took over as manager as I'm from New Zealand (and Nelsen's home city). Quick word on Brockie who plays for NZ's only professional team who I also support. He's a pacy striker who only really fulfilled his potential this season. He has a happy knack for scoring spectacular goals. If you look at his goals from his Newcastle Jets days, there aren't many tap-ins on there. He generally has pretty good finishing ability, and is quite clinical when he gets a chance, but does have games and even patches of games where he goes completely missing. Perhaps he won't do that in the MLS as he'll be keen to make a good impression. He's also equally adept on either wing, and has a good cross on him.

[SiguenzaFC]

According to transfermarkt, his market value is approx. $785,000, which isn't unreasonable if he were to perform in the MLS at the same rate as he did in the A-League. It also opens the door for scouting players in a league that has talented players that can adapt to North American football IMO.

[SiguenzaFC]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jYHmYczcPg4

[brad]

Hey guys, I'll admit I've only started supporting TFC since Nelsen took over as manager as I'm from New Zealand (and Nelsen's home city). Quick word on Brockie who plays for NZ's only professional team who I also support. He's a pacy striker who only really fulfilled his potential this season. He has a happy knack for scoring spectacular goals. If you look at his goals from his Newcastle Jets days, there aren't many tap-ins on there. He generally has pretty good finishing ability, and is quite clinical when he gets a chance, but does have games and even patches of games where he goes completely missing. Perhaps he won't do that in the MLS as he'll be keen to make a good impression. He's also equally adept on either wing, and has a good cross on him.

Nice - thanks for the report (and welcome to the world of TFC)

[Lucky Strike]

Hey guys, I'll admit I've only started supporting TFC since Nelsen took over as manager as I'm from New Zealand (and Nelsen's home city). Quick word on Brockie who plays for NZ's only professional team who I also support. He's a pacy striker who only really fulfilled his potential this season. He has a happy knack for scoring spectacular goals. If you look at his goals from his Newcastle Jets days, there aren't many tap-ins on there. He generally has pretty good finishing ability, and is quite clinical when he gets a chance, but does have games and even patches of games where he goes completely missing. Perhaps he won't do that in the MLS as he'll be keen to make a good impression. He's also equally adept on either wing, and has a good cross on him.

Welcome and thanks for your input. A little off-topic, but I think Wellington and TFC are somewhat mirrored in their situation. Both teams are/were for a time, that country's only team in a league mostly populated by teams in another, both leagues are up and coming, both are working under a salary cap, both have teams that failed (Tampa Bay, Miami, North Queensland, Gold Coast and NZ Knights), even both countries themselves as Canada and NZ have common history with a more populous neighbouring country sometimes adjudged to be obnoxious. This all being so, I've actually kept an eye on Wellington Phoenix as I feel there's a kinship with TFC. So welcome! I hope Brockie can also create goals from nothing here, we sort of need that.

[Oldtimer]

Hey guys, I'll admit I've only started supporting TFC since Nelsen took over as manager as I'm from New Zealand (and Nelsen's home city). Quick word on Brockie who plays for NZ's only professional team who I also support. He's a pacy striker who only really fulfilled his potential this season. He has a happy knack for scoring spectacular goals. If you look at his goals from his Newcastle Jets days, there aren't many tap-ins on there. He generally has pretty good finishing ability, and is quite clinical when he gets a chance, but does have games and even patches of games where he goes completely missing. Perhaps he won't do that in the MLS as he'll be keen to make a good impression. He's also equally adept on either wing, and has a good cross on him.

Hope you enjoy following TFC. Prior to Nelsen, we actually spent some time last year having the worst professional record in the world. Hopefully Nelsen can work wonders.

[Lucky Strike]

P.S. Those interested in seeing more of how this move is viewed can go to the link below. It's an aggregate of all news stories pertaining to TFC in the English-speaking world.

http://www.newsnow.co.uk/h/Sport/Football/North+America/MLS/Toronto+FC (http://www.newsnow.co.uk/h/Sport/Football/North+America/MLS/Toronto+FC)

[ensco]

Wasn't there a guy from Wellington who used to post on here occasionally? I'm thinking 3-4 years ago.

[Brooker]

Wasn't there a guy from Wellington who used to post on here occasionally? I'm thinking 3-4 years ago.

Yeh I don't remember his name but he was from their supporters group Yellow Fever.

[Yohan]

It does indeed. However, the GM of Wellington clearly expects Brockie to come back so it pre-supposes the existence of a gentleman's agreement that TFC will not exercise its option to buy. It theoretically could, but then would be a pariah of a team worldwide (or at least in MLS and in the eyes of Wellington). Brockie seems to be a good player for Wellington and may turn out to be good as well with TFC, but it's still not the sort of player on which you'd want to ruin your reputation. Or alternatively, the two teams could agree on an exorbitant fee (such as $10 million, way in excess of any real market value) that TFC would never pay in order to satisfy the "option to buy" that MLS mandates and re-assure Wellington that it will get its player back.
if Nelsen wants Brockie on a 3 months loan only, and no intention to buy, we have to ask, why? does he think TFC sucks so much on offence that he thinks Brockie's 3 months loan is worth it? or a temporary solution until Danny K is fit again? or TFC doesn't have any other strikers lined up and Brockie is the best option?

I think if Brockie does well enough, TFC will buy him. as much as Wellington might not like it, Wellington isn't exactly flushed with cash. a decent transfer fee will go a long way for that club. and Brockie may force the issue, with promise of higher wage and better quality football. he's got to be looking at Europe in the future and MLS is a stepping stone for him.

for TFC, Nelsen is hoping that Brockie turns out to be another Saborio. a star in lower quality league ends up panning out. if TFC manages cap space well, Brockie may even be bought for non DP status.

[pdogg]

if Nelsen wants Brockie on a 3 months loan only, and no intention to buy, we have to ask, why? does he think TFC sucks so much on offence that he thinks Brockie's 3 months loan is worth it? or a temporary solution until Danny K is fit again?

This was my initial thought. Even when Danny is ready to return, he won't be ready for 90+ minutes. I imagine he'll be slotted in as a 65th minute sub for a few games, and then move over to starting and progressing 65/75/90 over a few weeks. Braun was the obvious initial cover for him, but with him injured (or not adequate enough), they need to look elsewhere. This also gives us a bit of overlap with Earnshaw's loan ending.

[Greatest Ripoff]

Hey guys, I'll admit I've only started supporting TFC since Nelsen took over as manager as I'm from New Zealand (and Nelsen's home city). Quick word on Brockie who plays for NZ's only professional team who I also support. He's a pacy striker who only really fulfilled his potential this season. He has a happy knack for scoring spectacular goals. If you look at his goals from his Newcastle Jets days, there aren't many tap-ins on there. He generally has pretty good finishing ability, and is quite clinical when he gets a chance, but does have games and even patches of games where he goes completely missing. Perhaps he won't do that in the MLS as he'll be keen to make a good impression. He's also equally adept on either wing, and has a good cross on him.

I am curious, what do Wellington supporters think of this loan?

[Lucky Strike]

if Nelsen wants Brockie on a 3 months loan only, and no intention to buy, we have to ask, why? does he think TFC sucks so much on offence that he thinks Brockie's 3 months loan is worth it? or a temporary solution until Danny K is fit again? or TFC doesn't have any other strikers lined up and Brockie is the best option?

I think if Brockie does well enough, TFC will buy him. as much as Wellington might not like it, Wellington isn't exactly flushed with cash. a decent transfer fee will go a long way for that club. and Brockie may force the issue, with promise of higher wage and better quality football. he's got to be looking at Europe in the future and MLS is a stepping stone for him.

for TFC, Nelsen is hoping that Brockie turns out to be another Saborio. a star in lower quality league ends up panning out. if TFC manages cap space well, Brockie may even be bought for non DP status.

All good questions. The best I can come up with, is that after Urruti fell through, this is a sort of plan B? I know we weren't exactly left with the impression that there was a plan B, but who knows? Your scenario would seem to fit TFC's preference to get players on loan first, to sample the merchandise in MLS before buying.

Just like when Nelsen was hired, TFC was vague on when he would join so as to not undermine QPR's position in the transfer market, perhaps an agreement was made so that the Wellington GM could insinuate that Brockie will be back. Losing one of their best players wouldn't be looked upon favourably, especially if they're selling season tickets for next year, for example. Payne is known to employ deception (case in point the MLS draft) so I wouldn't put it past him.

[Yohan]

So, by all reports Brockie is... mercurial striker/winger? I like the fact that he seems to be able to use both feet. But questionable work rate?

[Huyton]

So, by all reports Brockie is... mercurial striker/winger? I like the fact that he seems to be able to use both feet. But questionable work rate?


Makes a pleasant change from the hard working donkey we sign all too often.

Might just be fun to watch!

[ManUtd4ever]

Brockie seems like a decent enough acquisition, but the real question is, can he prevent the opposition from scoring goals in stoppage time? ;)

[nztfc]

I am curious, what do Wellington supporters think of this loan?

Good deal for both parties. The A-League off-season is outrageously long. I think the off-season is longer than the season itself. The Phoenix spend this time playing meaningless friendlies against local amateur teams and invitational teams comprising local amateur footballers. Last year they chucked in a trip to India as well (hardly a stronghold of world football). A loan deal over part of our off-season is good for Brockie and good for the Phoenix, and good for the All Whites as well who have some important games coming up. As long as he doesn't break his leg or anything along those lines, its a perfect deal for the Phoenix and Brockie in my opinion.

Not sure what the arrangement is, but if he did well and ended up signing for TFC permanently, I would be more happy from an All Whites perspective than I would be disappointed from a Phoenix perspective.

Hope this helps.

[OgtheDim]

Hmmm....we havn't had many lazy and talented guys. A lot of lazy and used to be talented, yes.

Might take a bit of getting used to.

[valeo]

Good deal for both parties. The A-League off-season is outrageously long. I think the off-season is longer than the season itself. The Phoenix spend this time playing meaningless friendlies against local amateur teams and invitational teams comprising local amateur footballers. Last year they chucked in a trip to India as well (hardly a stronghold of world football). A loan deal over part of our off-season is good for Brockie and good for the Phoenix, and good for the All Whites as well who have some important games coming up. As long as he doesn't break his leg or anything along those lines, its a perfect deal for the Phoenix and Brockie in my opinion.

Not sure what the arrangement is, but if he did well and ended up signing for TFC permanently, I would be more happy from an All Whites perspective than I would be disappointed from a Phoenix perspective.

Hope this helps.

This. The more kiwis we get loaned out to decent clubs, the better - we have an important 2-leg World Cup qualifying game coming up this year and players need gametime.

[Greatest Ripoff]

This. The more kiwis we get loaned out to decent clubs, the better - we have an important 2-leg World Cup qualifying game coming up this year and players need gametime.

Do people in NZ view Toronto as a decent club?

[valeo]

I don't think we're in any position to judge considering we were stone cold last this year ;)

Decent club as in a good professional setup in a good league.

[kiwicom65]

COMMENTS FROM KIWI FAN:Brockie’s from my hometown, Nelson, New Zealand and I’ve followed his career since he was a kid. Always showed a lot of potential in the local South Island leagues and then for Canterbury United in our NZ Football Championship. From there was signed by the predecessor New Zealand franchise in Australia’s A-League, the NZ Knights and started with a bang, scoring twice on debut in one of the side’s few wins that 2005-6 season. Then signed for Sydney FC, Australia’s wealthiest club then coached by former England international Terry Butcher but didn’t work out for him there and went on to more success with North Queensland Fury, Newcastle United and Wellington Phoenix.
He's only become a regular goal-scorer in the last two A-League seasons. Even in the NZ national league he only scored a couple of goals before going to Australia. But he's really worked on that aspect and has been one of the biggest attacking threats in the A-League this season, scoring more goals than Sydney's super-star Del Piero or Emile Heskey, the former England international.
Has been a useful and versatile player for our national teams at senior and age-group levels, first catching attention with a great goal vs. China at the 2008 Beijing Olympics: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AmTfMcWs_hs
(Your new manager Ryan Nelsen was at centre-back as an over-age Olympic player in that game.)
However, it’s an enigma to NZ fans that he’s never scored for our senior national team, the All Whites, in 36 appearances.
More Brockie goals: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QM82dAsX0KM
He's been used as a winger, midfielder and forward by our national team, and even did well filling-in as a wing-back on one occasion.
A Brockie goal in “World’sTop 40 Amazing Goals” on major international site goal.com’s channel:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4GUHLQ47rsc&list=PL3E1LmEbuK1SOWQbMJaiScn9sLSXirSUa

[valeo]

I think that you should've taken Durante instead..

Your problems are definitely at the back.

[SiguenzaFC]

I think that you should've taken Durante instead..

Your problems are definitely at the back.

Definately would have been welcomed. Can you tell us more about the league? I am sure a lot us are interested in a scouting report from a league with some talented players. Players that have caught my eye and that could be good in the MLS IMO are Marco Rojas, Dani McBreen, Besart Berisha, Gui Finkler, Shinji Ono and Jerome Polenz.

[speckles]

agree on the Durante comment, a few good but not expensive defenders in the A -league, Durante on loan was looked into...Marco Rojas is going to Stuttgart, actually they have picked up a number of A-league players over the last few years. They are mid-table performers in a strong league so the quality players in the A -League should be consistent performers at least in the MSL.

[kiwicom65]

Definately would have been welcomed. Can you tell us more about the league? I am sure a lot us are interested in a scouting report from a league with some talented players. Players that have caught my eye and that could be good in the MLS IMO are Marco Rojas, Dani McBreen, Besart Berisha, Gui Finkler, Shinji Ono and Jerome Polenz.
As a Kiwi A-League follower (Wellington Phoenix fan) I can say the A-League is generally regarded as the third best league in Asia after (1) the J-League in Japan and (2) the K-League in South Korea. So it's head of China etc. Though it's only comprised of ten teams. Final standings for season just finished (click on a team name for details about that side):
http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/aleague/ladder
BEST PLAYERS IN THE A-LEAGUE (AS VOTED BY FANS THIS MONTH) TOWARDS SELECTING "ALL-STAR" TEAM TO PLAY MANCHESTER UNITED IN JULY:
http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/news-display/foxtel-all-stars-top-35-as-selected-by-fans/66763
(Click on a player's name for more details about them - in some cases you'll have to click on "Clubs" at the top of the page & then search individual clubs, clicking on "Players & Staff")
Goalkeepers: 1.Mathew Ryan (Central Coast Mariners) / 2. Ante Covic (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/melbournevictory/players/Ante-Covic/4506) (Western Sydney Wanderers) / 3.Eugene Galekovic (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/adelaideunited/players/Eugene-Galekovic/6) (Adelaide United) / 4. Michael Theo (Brisbane Roar) / 5. Nathan Coe (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/socceroos/players/Nathan-Coe/3122)(Melbourne Victory)
Defenders: 1.Nikolai Topor-Stanley (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/newcastlejets/players/Nikolai-Topor-Stanley/250) (Western Sydney Wanderers) / 2. Pedj Bojic (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/centralcoastmariners/players/Pedj-Bojic/1829) (Central Coast Mariners) / 3.Patrick Zwaanswijk (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/centralcoastmariners/players/Patrick-Zwaanswijk/1947) (Central Coast Mariners) / 4. Adama Traore (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/melbournevictory/players/Adama-Traore/1800) (Melbourne Victory) / 5. Michael Beauchamp (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/sydneyfc/players/Michael-Beauchamp/26) (Western Sydney Wanderers) / 6. Lucas Neill (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/socceroos/players/Lucas-Neill/292) (Sydney FC) / 7. Ivan Franjic (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/brisbaneroar/players/Ivan-Franjic/1850) (Brisbane Roar) / 8. Trent Sainsbury (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/centralcoastmariners/players/Trent-Sainsbury/1915) (Central Coast Mariners) / 9. Michael Thwaite (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/perthglory/players/Michael-Thwaite/619) (Perth Glory) / 10. Joshua Rose (Central Coast Mariners)
Midfielders: 1. Shinji Ono (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/wswanderersfc/players/Shinji-Ono/980) (Western Sydney Wanderers) / 2. Thomas Broich (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/brisbaneroar/players/Thomas-Broich/1833) (Brisbane Roar) / 3. Youssouf Hersi (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/wswanderersfc/players/Youssouf-Hersi/5664) (Western Sydney Wanderers) / 4. Michael McGlinchey (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/centralcoastmariners/players/Michael-McGlinchey/1885) (Central Coast Mariners) / 5. Aaron Mooy (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/under23s/players/Aaron-Mooy/3916) (Western Sydney Wanderers) / 6. Mark Milligan (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/melbournevictory/players/Mark-Milligan/53) (Melbourne Victory) / 7. Dario Vidosic (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/adelaideunited/players/Dario-Vidosic/254)(Adelaide United) / 8. Marcos Flores (Melbourne Victory) / 9. Richard Garcia (Melbourne Heart) / 10. Marcelo Carrusca (Adelaide United)
Strikers: 1. Alessandro Del Piero (Sydney FC) / 2. Marco Rojas (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/melbournevictory/players/Marco-Rojas/1912) (Melbourne Victory) / 3. Emile Heskey (Newcastle Jets) / 4. Archie Thompson (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/players/Archie-Thompson/17) (Melbourne Victory) / 5. Daniel McBreen (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/centralcoastmariners/players/Daniel-McBreen/1883) (Central Coast Mariners) / 6. Besart Berisha (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/brisbaneroar/players/Besart-Berisha/3966) (Brisbane Roar) / 7. Jeremy Brockie (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/wellingtonphoenix/players/Jeremy-Brockie/128) (Wellington Phoenix) / 8. Shane Smeltz (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/perthglory/players/Shane-Smeltz/1798) (Perth Glory) / 9. Mark Bridge (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/sydneyfc/players/Mark-Bridge/90) (Western Sydney Wanderers) / 10. Bernie Ibini (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/centralcoastmariners/players/Bernie-Ibini-Isei/3830) (Central Coast Mariners)

Four of those guys are current New Zealand internationals (Brockie, Rojas, McGlinchey, Smeltz). In my opinion, Wellington Phoenix defender & NZ international Andrew Durante should be on the defender list (centre-back), whilst Wellington Phoenix & NZ international goalie Glen Moss is as good as any. A midfielder from my local team, Canterbury United, Aaron Clapham (NZ World Cup Finals squad 2010) who plays in NZ's top league, the ASB Premiership, is crying out for a professional contract overseas (second-highest scorer in NZ season just finished).
For a different opinion on the best players, see: Australian PFA A-League Team of the Year (20% of the All-Star make-up): http://www.pfa.net.au/index.php?id=231

[valeo]

As a Kiwi A-League follower (Wellington Phoenix fan) I can say the A-League is generally regarded as the third best league in Asia after (1) the J-League in Japan and (2) the K-League in South Korea. So it's head of China etc. Though it's only comprised of ten teams. Final standings for season just finished (click on a team name for details about that side):
http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/aleague/ladder
BEST PLAYERS IN THE A-LEAGUE (AS VOTED BY FANS THIS MONTH) TOWARDS SELECTING "ALL-STAR" TEAM TO PLAY MANCHESTER UNITED IN JULY:
http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/news-display/foxtel-all-stars-top-35-as-selected-by-fans/66763
(Click on a player's name for more details about them - in some cases you'll have to click on "Clubs" at the top of the page & then search individual clubs, clicking on "Players & Staff")
Goalkeepers: 1.Mathew Ryan (Central Coast Mariners) / 2. Ante Covic (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/melbournevictory/players/Ante-Covic/4506) (Western Sydney Wanderers) / 3.Eugene Galekovic (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/adelaideunited/players/Eugene-Galekovic/6) (Adelaide United) / 4. Michael Theo (Brisbane Roar) / 5. Nathan Coe (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/socceroos/players/Nathan-Coe/3122)(Melbourne Victory)
Defenders: 1.Nikolai Topor-Stanley (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/newcastlejets/players/Nikolai-Topor-Stanley/250) (Western Sydney Wanderers) / 2. Pedj Bojic (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/centralcoastmariners/players/Pedj-Bojic/1829) (Central Coast Mariners) / 3.Patrick Zwaanswijk (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/centralcoastmariners/players/Patrick-Zwaanswijk/1947) (Central Coast Mariners) / 4. Adama Traore (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/melbournevictory/players/Adama-Traore/1800) (Melbourne Victory) / 5. Michael Beauchamp (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/sydneyfc/players/Michael-Beauchamp/26) (Western Sydney Wanderers) / 6. Lucas Neill (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/socceroos/players/Lucas-Neill/292) (Sydney FC) / 7. Ivan Franjic (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/brisbaneroar/players/Ivan-Franjic/1850) (Brisbane Roar) / 8. Trent Sainsbury (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/centralcoastmariners/players/Trent-Sainsbury/1915) (Central Coast Mariners) / 9. Michael Thwaite (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/perthglory/players/Michael-Thwaite/619) (Perth Glory) / 10. Joshua Rose (Central Coast Mariners)
Midfielders: 1. Shinji Ono (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/wswanderersfc/players/Shinji-Ono/980) (Western Sydney Wanderers) / 2. Thomas Broich (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/brisbaneroar/players/Thomas-Broich/1833) (Brisbane Roar) / 3. Youssouf Hersi (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/wswanderersfc/players/Youssouf-Hersi/5664) (Western Sydney Wanderers) / 4. Michael McGlinchey (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/centralcoastmariners/players/Michael-McGlinchey/1885) (Central Coast Mariners) / 5. Aaron Mooy (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/under23s/players/Aaron-Mooy/3916) (Western Sydney Wanderers) / 6. Mark Milligan (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/melbournevictory/players/Mark-Milligan/53) (Melbourne Victory) / 7. Dario Vidosic (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/adelaideunited/players/Dario-Vidosic/254)(Adelaide United) / 8. Marcos Flores (Melbourne Victory) / 9. Richard Garcia (Melbourne Heart) / 10. Marcelo Carrusca (Adelaide United)
Strikers: 1. Alessandro Del Piero (Sydney FC) / 2. Marco Rojas (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/melbournevictory/players/Marco-Rojas/1912) (Melbourne Victory) / 3. Emile Heskey (Newcastle Jets) / 4. Archie Thompson (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/players/Archie-Thompson/17) (Melbourne Victory) / 5. Daniel McBreen (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/centralcoastmariners/players/Daniel-McBreen/1883) (Central Coast Mariners) / 6. Besart Berisha (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/brisbaneroar/players/Besart-Berisha/3966) (Brisbane Roar) / 7. Jeremy Brockie (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/wellingtonphoenix/players/Jeremy-Brockie/128) (Wellington Phoenix) / 8. Shane Smeltz (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/perthglory/players/Shane-Smeltz/1798) (Perth Glory) / 9. Mark Bridge (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/sydneyfc/players/Mark-Bridge/90) (Western Sydney Wanderers) / 10. Bernie Ibini (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/centralcoastmariners/players/Bernie-Ibini-Isei/3830) (Central Coast Mariners)

Four of those guys are current New Zealand internationals (Brockie, Rojas, McGlinchey, Smeltz). In my opinion, Wellington Phoenix defender & NZ international Andrew Durante should be on the defender list (centre-back), whilst Wellington Phoenix & NZ international goalie Glen Moss is as good as any. A midfielder from my local team, Canterbury United, Aaron Clapham (NZ World Cup Finals squad 2010) who plays in NZ's top league, the ASB Premiership, is crying out for a professional contract overseas (second-highest scorer in NZ season just finished).
For a different opinion on the best players, see: Australian PFA A-League Team of the Year (20% of the All-Star make-up): http://www.pfa.net.au/index.php?id=5&tx_ttnews[tt_news]=470&tx_ttnews=4&cHash=566954615d

[B]Defenders: 1.Nikolai Topor-Stanley (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/newcastlejets/players/Nikolai-Topor-Stanley/250) (Western Sydney Wanderers) / 2. Pedj Bojic (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/centralcoastmariners/players/Pedj-Bojic/1829) (Central Coast Mariners) / 3.Patrick Zwaanswijk (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/centralcoastmariners/players/Patrick-Zwaanswijk/1947) (Central Coast Mariners) / 4. Adama Traore (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/melbournevictory/players/Adama-Traore/1800) (Melbourne Victory) / 5. Michael Beauchamp (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/sydneyfc/players/Michael-Beauchamp/26) (Western Sydney Wanderers) / 6. Lucas Neill (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/socceroos/players/Lucas-Neill/292) (Sydney FC) / 7. Ivan Franjic (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/brisbaneroar/players/Ivan-Franjic/1850) (Brisbane Roar) / 8. Trent Sainsbury (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/centralcoastmariners/players/Trent-Sainsbury/1915) (Central Coast Mariners) / 9. Michael Thwaite (http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/perthglory/players/Michael-Thwaite/619) (Perth Glory) / 10. Joshua Rose (Central Coast Mariners)
Sainsbury (CB) is my pick out of this lot - with Adama Traore (left back) a close 2nd. Both great, young players that would be terrific pickups for any MLS side.

[nonc]

I believe Brockie and Koevermans will be the ideal pair, but if Earnshaw has good form Brockie could always take place of Ephraim.

[Pint]

Just watched the brick or interview and he really sounds like he wants to stick here long term. He never comes out and says so in the interview but alludes to it several times.

[Abou Sky]

Just watched the brick or interview and he really sounds like he wants to stick here long term. He never comes out and says so in the interview but alludes to it several times.

He alludes VERY strongly.

Seems hungry which is what we need.

[Yohan]

He alludes VERY strongly.

Seems hungry which is what we need.
http://www.stuff.co.nz/nelson-mail/sport/8675064/Jeremy-Brockie-I-ll-be-back-even-better
Pretty much admits he wants to play in Europe, using MLS to showcase himself

[Abou Sky]

http://www.stuff.co.nz/nelson-mail/sport/8675064/Jeremy-Brockie-I-ll-be-back-even-better
Pretty much admits he wants to play in Europe, using MLS to showcase himself

Wow, that article makes Toronto seem like a sports fans paradise...

[valeo]

http://www.stuff.co.nz/nelson-mail/sport/8675064/Jeremy-Brockie-I-ll-be-back-even-better
Pretty much admits he wants to play in Europe, using MLS to showcase himself

Doesn't say that at all.

I hope he does well at Toronto but very much doubt he will stay there - can earn more playing in the A-League and his family is settled in Wellington. We'll see.

Anyway, I think you guys would be reluctant to pay a transfer fee unless he bangs in a goal a game.

[brad]

Doesn't say that at all.

I hope he does well at Toronto but very much doubt he will stay there - can earn more playing in the A-League and his family is settled in Wellington. We'll see.

Anyway, I think you guys would be reluctant to pay a transfer fee unless he bangs in a goal a game.

What kind of $$ would he make in the A-League, and any idea what kind of transfer fee would be asked?

MLS is a high exposure league now. As the costs of other markets have exploded - MLS is now being looked at as a good value for money for players and more EPL teams in particular are starting to look at the MLS. If he is looking to take his career to Europe, it's hard to argue that the A-League to MLS is not a step in the right direction. Especially with a well connected form EPL player as your manager.

[SiguenzaFC]

Doing a bit of research I fount out his agent is CS Sports, he has a contract until 2015 but couldn't find any figures. I wonder if the club can work a transfer fee into his contract like Laba? 600k euros is his estimate.

I am excited to see him play, I think a frontline of Koevs as a target man with Brockie and Robbie both making runs past defenders for a shot or a cross could be dynamic and deadly.

http://www.townsvillebulletin.com.au/images/uploadedfiles/editorial/pictures/2009/01/27/Jeremy-Brockie.jpg

[Auzzy]

http://www.stuff.co.nz/nelson-mail/sport/8675064/Jeremy-Brockie-I-ll-be-back-even-better
Pretty much admits he wants to play in Europe, using MLS to showcase himself

Hey look, our coach is so famous in New Zealand, they even have a newspaper named after him!

;)

[jloome]

MLS doesn't usually sanction loans unless there's an option to buy.

[Auzzy]

MLS doesn't usually sanction loans unless there's an option to buy.

I've heard that so often, but is it really confirmed, and are their special circumstances? For example, MLS has often let players go on loan oversees, or to train, during the MLS off-season, when the expectation was clear that the player would come back. On the flip-side, if there's a guy like Brockie under contract from a league with a very different schedule, who could benefit from some play & exposure during his off-season, and an MLS team needs some temp help as they line up long-term deals -- they may see that differently...?

[Technorgasm]

Hey guys, I'll admit I've only started supporting TFC since Nelsen took over as manager as I'm from New Zealand (and Nelsen's home city). Quick word on Brockie who plays for NZ's only professional team who I also support. He's a pacy striker who only really fulfilled his potential this season. He has a happy knack for scoring spectacular goals. If you look at his goals from his Newcastle Jets days, there aren't many tap-ins on there. He generally has pretty good finishing ability, and is quite clinical when he gets a chance, but does have games and even patches of games where he goes completely missing. Perhaps he won't do that in the MLS as he'll be keen to make a good impression. He's also equally adept on either wing, and has a good cross on him.

See, this is the kind of valuable input that I LOVE about the RPB forum (as few and far between as it is)

Given the difference in pace between MLS and the A-League, I think he will do well. .
He may enjoy the slower pace, and find more time on the ball. . .

[valeo]

What kind of $$ would he make in the A-League, and any idea what kind of transfer fee would be asked?

MLS is a high exposure league now. As the costs of other markets have exploded - MLS is now being looked at as a good value for money for players and more EPL teams in particular are starting to look at the MLS. If he is looking to take his career to Europe, it's hard to argue that the A-League to MLS is not a step in the right direction. Especially with a well connected form EPL player as your manager.

I assume Brockie wouldn't be a highly paid player at Toronto - in comparison, he's probably one of our best paid (if he isn't now, he will be). We have smaller squads, so less people to share the money between.

2-3 years ago I remember a comparison between the leagues - our average salary was 140,000 while the MLS was 90,000; may have changed a little since then.

[jloome]

I assume Brockie wouldn't be a highly paid player at Toronto - in comparison, he's probably one of our best paid (if he isn't now, he will be). We have smaller squads, so less people to share the money between.

2-3 years ago I remember a comparison between the leagues - our average salary was 140,000 while the MLS was 90,000; may have changed a little since then.

Strikers who come into MLS with pro experience are generally paid on experience. If he was prolific (1 in 3 or better) he would get anywhere from about $175,000 on the low end to $350,000 (or thereabouts, the cap max.)

If he came in and scored one in 2, he'd command good money, probably not DP right away because has no profile here, but he could get the salary max, if he was among the league leaders. MLS has a long history of overpaying strikers, and they're more likely to earn over $200,000 a year than any other position in the league.

[Michael]

if Nelsen wants Brockie on a 3 months loan only, and no intention to buy, we have to ask, why? does he think TFC sucks so much on offence that he thinks Brockie's 3 months loan is worth it? or a temporary solution until Danny K is fit again? or TFC doesn't have any other strikers lined up and Brockie is the best option?

I think if Brockie does well enough, TFC will buy him. as much as Wellington might not like it, Wellington isn't exactly flushed with cash. a decent transfer fee will go a long way for that club. and Brockie may force the issue, with promise of higher wage and better quality football. he's got to be looking at Europe in the future and MLS is a stepping stone for him.

for TFC, Nelsen is hoping that Brockie turns out to be another Saborio. a star in lower quality league ends up panning out. if TFC manages cap space well, Brockie may even be bought for non DP status.

I'm a NZ lander from wellington. Since Ryan has come on board as coach my whole family have taken to following the fortunes of TFC. My observations are that Brockie will provide you with much versatility in the front. Notwithstanding he can make goals from anywhere(left or right foot) and he is not wedded to playing in a set position. He has a fantastic long range shot and he is very street smart when shooting from closer in.
If given a chance and he is allowed some freedom pitch watch out for goals galore....

[Petor]

The Wellington Phoenix played last night(our time).
Brockie sat on the bench until the 80th minute, then came on to score a goal and get an assist.

It's nice to see that the girls in the supporters section take shirts off seriously! :D


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r9xID1h3pc4

[MartinUtd]

Nice to see him doing well but I doubt he's coming back.