The Jermain Defoe to TFC thread (It's Official!)

[cmonyoureds]

Luke Wileman ‏@LukeWileman6s (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/LukeWileman/status/420968251372625921)Can confirm Jermain Defoe is expected to arrive in Canada this weekend to complete his transfer to @torontofc (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/torontofc) from Tottenham #MLS (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/search?q=%23MLS&src=hash)

Not completely done then.
Have we learned nothing...............

[Red4ever]

Well played by them....

Defoe News confirmed... Spit take video 1

Bradley news leaks... spit take video 2.

Messi news breaks....

[JJSFC]

I always had lingering doubt in my mind that Defoe would make the move. Ecstatic to see it's looking nailed-on. I'll relinquish my dislike for him as soon as he wears TFC's red.

[Chevy]

8eE19bxsDWQ (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8eE19bxsDWQ)

Posted by TFC. Defoe to TFC is now official then!


Has anyone told DeRo and his agent that this mini-campaign is not focused on him? :)

[billyfly]

Has anyone told DeRo and his agent that this mini-campaign is not focused on him? :)

Not as good as your pylon post but still well done.

[Chevy]

Not as good as your pylon post but still well done.

Wow, people still remember that one? I guess that's my Al Bundy Polk High Touchdown story.

[billyfly]

Wow, people still remember that one? I guess that's my Al Bundy Polk High Touchdown story.

People still mention my Supporters Gate idea so we all need to be known for something.

[Chevy]

People still mention my Supporters Gate idea so we all need to be known for something.

Ha! Any legacy is a good legacy.

[Pookie]

I highly doubt we are loaning him straight back to the Spurs since they are the ones selling him, maybe Westham? I still don't like the loaning bullshit though, TFC shouldn't be pushed around considering the amount of money involved.

Imagine the story lines if TFC misses the playoffs by a point again and he misses March/April games?

As for gravity of the news, it's a big deal. I know its the retirement plan scenario with MLS and Premiership names but worthy of a raised eyebrow for sure.

I don't know if it sells tickets in the way they are counting on. A new ticket holder opting into med greys would have to part with over $1,300 (pair) just to see him.

Impact on the pitch? Depends on the impact 31 years have had on his body. Real risk is he blows a knee like Koevermans did. All the eggs are firmly in that basket.

Team is better today than it was yesterday. Arguable as to whether it is remarkably better than it was when Frings and Koevermans were having their names put on the jersey. Let's hope that the expensive band aid plan works.... this time.

Still fun to talk about.

[burlington Red]

West ham could be doing with Defoe today, on the end of another tanking 5-0 from Man City

[lanarkist]

Phil, any way we can find out from the FO whether an airport greeting will be happening? Or just presumably at the ACC?

[Greatest Ripoff]

West ham could be doing with Defoe today, on the end of another tanking 5-0 from Man City

It was 6-0. Just on my way back from Manchester to London.

[Gilberto9]

City demolished West Ham! On the Sky Sports broadcast, they mentioned Defoe completing his move to Toronto FC.

[Red Skies At Night]

It was 6-0. Just on my way back from Manchester to London.

Well sounds like we're getting pie and mash on the bmo menu for this season... that should cheer you up ;)

[Phil]

Phil, any way we can find out from the FO whether an airport greeting will be happening? Or just presumably at the ACC?

It will be at real sports. Check your inbox from TFC. :)

[Flipityflu]

http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11675/9107190/transfer-news-tottenhams-jermain-defoe-set-to-complete-toronto-move

[Super]

Imagine the story lines if TFC misses the playoffs by a point again and he misses March/April games?

As for gravity of the news, it's a big deal. I know its the retirement plan scenario with MLS and Premiership names but worthy of a raised eyebrow for sure.

I don't know if it sells tickets in the way they are counting on. A new ticket holder opting into med greys would have to part with over $1,300 (pair) just to see him.

Impact on the pitch? Depends on the impact 31 years have had on his body. Real risk is he blows a knee like Koevermans did. All the eggs are firmly in that basket.

Team is better today than it was yesterday. Arguable as to whether it is remarkably better than it was when Frings and Koevermans were having their names put on the jersey. Let's hope that the expensive band aid plan works.... this time.

Still fun to talk about.

Good DP striker can be extremely effective in this league. It's not the only piece to the puzzle, but it's an extremely important one. Between Defoe and Gilberto up front, I think we have been very smart with our DP slots. Defoe gets hurt? We still have Gilberto. That was always the problem with Koefs. We only really had one solid guy up front. And he was older, and heavier. Probably more injury prone because of that. To me we did everything right with our DPs. If either or both get injured then it's just dumb luck. And we shouldn't base our decisions on whether or not we get unlucky. It's not like we had any great non-DP alternative strikers made available to us in the past.

[Red CB Toronto]

It will be at real sports. Check your inbox from TFC. :)
Are RPB welcome to attend the announcement, as we have been in the past sometimes?

[Phil]

Are RPB welcome to attend the announcement, as we have been in the past sometimes?

I have sent a request. Probably won't know until tomorrow.

[West220Side]

I have sent a request. Probably won't know until tomorrow.

I would blow off a lot of responsibilities, take my membership card, and race downtown to see Defoe unveiled for TFC if we do get invited.

[tfcleeds]

This is exciting....i really do have to say. Frings/koevs was big....but this is bigger

[Ultra & Proud]

Getting ahead of myself but I caught myself thinking which trio would be better? Defoe, Gilberto, & Bradley on TFC 2014 or Keane, Donovan, & Beckham from LA's last championship season with Lieweke?

[Borga]

I don't think we really know what we have in Gilberto yet, so I'd be inclined to suggest the LA trio.

[tfcleeds]

It will be at real sports. Check your inbox from TFC. :)

But now Larson's saying it will be at the Trump Hotel? Or is he just being crazy again. ;)

[Oblio2]

Much like many of you, I work fairly close to ACC....I would be down there in a Goddamn heartbeart Monday for the presentation.
With that said, the Sun is reporting it will be at the Trump Hotel.
Either way, I want to go and will glady give JD a heartfelt clap and welcome.....

[Phil]

But now Larson's saying it will be at the Trump Hotel? Or is he just being crazy again. ;)

Well they are having some kind of thing at Real Sports that afternoon. Not 100% sure on how they are going to do all this.

[sidvan]

Email I got yesterday -


https://blu172.mail.live.com/Handlers/ImageProxy.mvc?bicild=&canary=EnsHNd1GmWDt3F4g93UheHoaRLZYQgeQCo3Hj3n44nU %3d0&url=http%3a%2f%2fimage.mlsefanmail.com%2flib%2fffc f14%2fm%2f1%2fspacer.gif


https://blu172.mail.live.com/Handlers/ImageProxy.mvc?bicild=&canary=EnsHNd1GmWDt3F4g93UheHoaRLZYQgeQCo3Hj3n44nU %3d0&url=http%3a%2f%2fimage.mlsefanmail.com%2flib%2fffc f14%2fm%2f1%2fspacer.gif






Hello Sid
Save the date for your chance to be invited to an exclusive Toronto FC supporter event. The event will be hosted at Real Sports Bar & Grill on Monday, January 13thfrom 3-5 p.m. To ensure that you are part of the draw, enter your information here (http://click.mlsefanmail.com/?qs=4ed62a7a41cfe24770cec6f692504ac52ebe8d7f34cb68 1efeec837c0cb90b62318f64e0c1a734be) before Thursday, January 9th at 11:59 p.m.
We will be contacting you on Friday, January 10th if you are part of the lucky group who will have the chance to attend.

[Oblio2]

Ok. So the event Monday (partI) is at Real Sports and by Invite only.
What about Dero today?
Real Sports at what time?

[Initial B]

If any of you are going to this, please, please don't get bedazzled by the hype and be sure to hold Lieweke accountable to his "Playoffs" guarantee. Ask him what he plans to do if they don't make the playoffs. Is his guarantee "Playoffs or SSH-money refunded" or what?

Just remember that the Jays were supposed to win it all last year with the talent they had and look where they ended up. It might take the entire season for the new parts of the team to gel. Look at Seattle with Dempsey: Things didn't turn out as expected there, either.

I'm honestly not trying to be cynical or pessimistic, just very, very cautious. It's just that any time things have remotely begun to go well for this club, the wheels have fallen off somehow. I'm afraid to hope because I'm not sure I could take my hopes being dashed for the umpteenth time.

[Flipityflu]

If any of you are going to this, please, please don't get bedazzled by the hype and be sure to hold Lieweke accountable to his "Playoffs" guarantee. Ask him what he plans to do if they don't make the playoffs. Is his guarantee "Playoffs or SSH-money refunded" or what?

Just remember that the Jays were supposed to win it all last year with the talent they had and look where they ended up. It might take the entire season for the new parts of the team to gel. Look at Seattle with Dempsey: Things didn't turn out as expected there, either.

I'm honestly not trying to be cynical or pessimistic, just very, very cautious. It's just that any time things have remotely begun to go well for this club, the wheels have fallen off somehow. I'm afraid to hope because I'm not sure I could take my hopes being dashed for the umpteenth time.

really? so if reports are correct, we are about to spend $100 million to boost this team, something that has never been done in this league, and you want a refund if it doesn't work out?

save your fight for keeping the Argos out of BMO instead of wasting time being worried about this.

[Oblio2]

really? so if reports are correct, we are about to spend $100 million to boost this team, something that has never been done in this league, and you want a refund if it doesn't work out?

save your fight for keeping the Argos out of BMO instead of wasting time being worried about this.

Agreed. Neither the time or place.....
Cynical.

[Nestease]

Saw this paid ad (torontofc.ca) on the side of the sportsnet webpage:

http://i.imgur.com/Mpb4t9L.jpg

[Jack]

I guess they've realized the cat's out of the bag.

[OgtheDim]

Who's body did they superimpose under Defoe's head?

[Ivy]

Who's body did they superimpose under Defoe's head?
Osorio's converted Urruti-less body head figure computer generated. :/

[shwade]

let's say thank you drake…
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2536165/Jermain-Defoe-set-sign-Toronto-MLS-club-drop-huge-YouTube-hint.html
Also has a video from toronto fc advertising the signing.

[hulkrogan]

let's say thank you drake…
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2536165/Jermain-Defoe-set-sign-Toronto-MLS-club-drop-huge-YouTube-hint.html
Also has a video from toronto fc advertising the signing.

"Drake is a huge fan of his city's sports teams and is a global ambassador for NBA side Toronto Rapids"

This source seems legit!

[namebutler]

Lots of air time about the deal and Toronto FC on talksport.com right now about the deal. Roughly 10 minute piece.

[BradleytoDefoe]

Today will be a day long remembered in the annals of Toronto Sports History. Playoffs or Die. Hoist that Cup, Boys, and you will have a city desperate for a winner in the palms of your hands. To quote the great prophet, "Git 'er Done!"

[PatrickDermody]

Great news. He'll bring bags of goals, and with the support that he has, we won't have a problem hitting the back of the net. Now hopefully we can hold on to our leads this year.

[Shakes McQueen]

Well, it's official: http://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/news/jermain-defoe-moves-to-mls-toronto-fc-100114/

- Scott

[khso11]

Well, it's official: http://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/news/jermain-defoe-moves-to-mls-toronto-fc-100114/

- Scott

this is why my brain is telling me not to sleep. Great news!!!! Now we can confirm this will not be another forlan embarrassment.

[__wowza]

Well, it's official: http://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/news/jermain-defoe-moves-to-mls-toronto-fc-100114/

- Scott

see folks, you're asleep at 4am and you miss all the good stuff!!

http://i.imgur.com/EMrknJP.gif

[khso11]

and appearently there will be a friendly against the Spurs too.... #GetUsedtoit

[Red CB Toronto]

see folks, you're asleep at 4am and you miss all the good stuff!!

http://i.imgur.com/EMrknJP.gif

Well it is 9:30 in London, so guess this is targeted towards their market.

[__wowza]

Well it is 9:30 in London, so guess this is targeted towards their market.

i'm sure it was. it'll be a nice little gift for everyone when they wake up here though i'm sure.

[Red CB Toronto]

i'm sure it was. it'll be a nice little gift for everyone when they wake up here though i'm sure.

I know, I wonder if the TFC FO is a little peeved with this Spurs announcement as it steals their Thunder in making a splash with a high profile friendly announcement?

[mowe]

Good to see it finally become official. It's been a good week for TFC.

So he comes over after their Europa league game on the 27th. Will get in two full weeks of training before the March 15 opener at Seattle.

The friendly will be sandwiched between two tough games at Houston and vs SKC.

Kinda sucks for TFC that both Bradley and Defoe are already officially confirmed by their clubs but they have to wait until Monday for the big reveal. Wish the presser was tomorrow.

[Shakes McQueen]

So Defoe is confirmed to TFC, and Roma has confirmed that they sold Bradley to MLS. That's pretty ironclad confirmation of both deals. I guess we can exhale.

- Scott

[Wagner]

These guys are going to tear this league apart. ;)

[flatpicker]

Can the season start next week, please? Like someone else said, I haven't been this excited for TFC since the early days.

[Gilberto9]

I was up at 4 studying. Didnt come to the forum but wish I did!!

Very exciting to read the THFC article.

So they gave us Defoe for advertising ???


aaahhhhhhhhh

[Waggy]

IT'S EVEN BETTER THAN I'D HOPED! I'M... I'M JUST SO HAPPY


http://youtu.be/biXaQk-TDJk?t=18s


What a 48 hours. I can't believe there's a partnership between Spurs and TFC. And FINALLY after my 2 years of complaints I'll finally be able to get Spurs merch at Real Sports!!! And a friendly I'll actually go to! Everythings coming up Millhouse!

[Haddy]

http://www1.skysports.com/watch/video/sports/football/teams/tottenham-hotspur/9109593/defoe-joins-toronto-fc

That page has a video of Tim Sherwood making the official public announcement and explaining the details of Defoe's flight plans to Toronto and how the loan was included.

[Haddy]

TFC just tweeted this....


Toronto FC ‏@torontofc (https://twitter.com/torontofc)36s (https://twitter.com/torontofc/status/421661356543049729)
This Is A Bloody Big Deal! Toronto FC Sign Jermain Defoe. http://bit.ly/JNd1cy (http://t.co/oroRY3YOmE)

View media (https://twitter.com/torontofc/status/421661356543049729)

[Haddy]

TFC official press release confirming Defoe

http://www.torontofc.ca/news/2014/01/toronto-fc-signs-jermain-defoe

[Yohan]

At first I wasn't happy that Defoe is not coming till 1 Mar, which only gives 2 weeks till 15 Mar game vs Seattle to settle in with the team. Then I realized MLS int transfer window don't open till 16 Feb, that was last year's date. So TFC only don't get Defoe for 2 extra weeks. TFC may have lucked out with bye week in first week

Bradley should be in for 16 Feb or whatever int transfer window opens.

[Ultra & Proud]

Well the lady on 97.3 just said a blurb about Defoe the striker from Tottenham Hotspurs bring the magic back to Toronto FC so I guess Lieweke officially has what he wanted all along. TFC is now a mainstream news story and pretty much everyone is talking about the team. Even the dude at the post office asked me about it.

[tfcleeds]

TFC official press release confirming Defoehttp://www.torontofc.ca/news/2014/01/toronto-fc-signs-jermain-defoeLol @ the pronunciation guide. 'Jurr-main'. Thanks, I was stumped by that one...;)

[jloome]

http://www1.skysports.com/watch/video/sports/football/teams/tottenham-hotspur/9109593/defoe-joins-toronto-fc

That page has a video of Tim Sherwood making the official public announcement and explaining the details of Defoe's flight plans to Toronto and how the loan was included.

Nelsen react lower down on the page, it looks like.
EDIT: Never mind, it's old.

[ManUtd4ever]

These guys are going to tear this league apart. ;)

Had to be said, especially this time! g:D

[ginkster88]

I think my favourite part of this whole thing is that Real Sports will sell THFC gear now. :D

[ginkster88]

Anyone else wondering how San Jose feels about this whole thing, given they already have an official club partnership with Spurs?

[Yohan]

Anyone else wondering how San Jose feels about this whole thing, given they already have an official club partnership with Spurs?
nothing. their owner (who is filthy rich) won't pony up the cash, so they don't get Defoe. simple as that

[Technorgasm]

DEE-FOE! oh-oh-oh!
Dee-Foe! oh-oh-oh!
He comes from England's Shore
to score and score and score!

DEE-FOE! oh-oh-oh!
Dee-Foe! oh-oh-oh!
from Foggy London Town
To break defenses down!

DEE-FOE! oh-oh-oh!
Dee-Foe! oh-oh-oh!
To us from ol' White heart
To tear this league apart!

DEE-FOE! oh-oh-oh!
Dee-Foe! oh-oh-oh!
The league's best signing yet
He plunks it in the net!

DEE-FOE! oh-oh-oh!
Dee-Foe! oh-oh-oh!
Toronto's Number 1
He scores them just for fun!

. . . and so on. . . .

DEFOEnitley going to tear this league apart.
wickked awesome bRADly news.

[billyfly]

Anyone get email confirmation about the party on Monday?

[Canary10]

Anyone get email confirmation about the party on Monday?

No, was going to ask the same thing.

[UltraSuperMegaMo]

As much as I love this move, I think I hate the "Bloody Big Deal Ads"… anyone else?

[Canary10]

Anyone get email confirmation about the party on Monday?

Spoke to soon. Just got one! Yay, I'm going.

[Globetrotter]

Defoe is 5'7" and 143lbs????

I've lost all respect for this team.

Bring back Koevermans. :)

[billyfly]

Spoke to soon. Just got one! Yay, I'm going.

Just got mine too. But I am not going....

Thank you for your interest in our Toronto FC supporter event on Monday, January 13th.
Due to an overwhelming response and limited availability, we were unable to confirm your reservation for this event.
Rest assured, if the capacity allows, you may have the opportunity to enter the event if space becomes available on a first come, first serve basis. This message will be communicated at Real Sports Bar & Grill shortly after 3:45 p.m.
Toronto FC

[Canary10]

Just got mine too. But I am not going....

Thank you for your interest in our Toronto FC supporter event on Monday, January 13th.
Due to an overwhelming response and limited availability, we were unable to confirm your reservation for this event.
Rest assured, if the capacity allows, you may have the opportunity to enter the event if space becomes available on a first come, first serve basis. This message will be communicated at Real Sports Bar & Grill shortly after 3:45 p.m.
Toronto FC

Shit that sucks.

[Joe Kool]

I haven't received any emails in January yet. Not the renewal email or anything about this event. Weird. I have never changed my email on Account Manager and I was getting emails right up until Dec 27th of last year.

[Pint]

I haven't received any emails in January yet. Not the renewal email or anything about this event. Weird. I have never changed my email on Account Manager and I was getting emails right up until Dec 27th of last year.

if you use Gmail check your spam folder... occasionally end up in that folder

[Yohan]

http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/25680333

BBC reporting Defoe's wage to be 68k pounds/wk (110k US), potentially going up to 90k pounds/week. (150k US)

[Joe Kool]

if you use Gmail check your spam folder... occasionally end up in that folder

Thanks dude. I use Lotus Notes for that address I have with TFC. I checked the Junk folder but nothing. I have not had an issue in 7 years with missing an email. Weird that it started now. I think I missed at least a few emails from them in January now. Must be a 2014 thing....who knows. Fired an email to my rep.

[ginkster88]

Thanks dude. I use Lotus Notes for that address I have with TFC. I checked the Junk folder but nothing. I have not had an issue in 7 years with missing an email. Weird that it started now. I think I missed at least a few emails from them in January now. Must be a 2014 thing....who knows. Fired an email to my rep.

What makes you think you'll get his reply?

:D

[Joe Kool]

What makes you think you'll get his reply?

:D

Good one. Haha. If he hits the reply button it should take care of that. I am sure they are a little busy right now. Don't expect a response anytime real soon.

[FluSH]

Alright folks... Now it's our turn to step up!

we can't be crying foul all this time and not show up to the Home Opener - PROPER

Members... Check out the banner section... Now.

We need people, we need banner ideas, we need banner painting days, and we need $$$

There will only be one day that DeFoe & DeRo premier at BMO.... We either make this day into the History books for our club or make it just another day that we showed up to watch a game. I'm going with the former... Get into the section banner section with your contact info and all... When we mobilize ourselves to paint we want to do this en masse on the double.

[Derko]

Just got mine too. But I am not going....

Thank you for your interest in our Toronto FC supporter event on Monday, January 13th.
Due to an overwhelming response and limited availability, we were unable to confirm your reservation for this event.
Rest assured, if the capacity allows, you may have the opportunity to enter the event if space becomes available on a first come, first serve basis. This message will be communicated at Real Sports Bar & Grill shortly after 3:45 p.m.
Toronto FC

I got the same, thanks for your interest spiel.

[Auzzy]

I got the invite to Monday, and I'm going! Booked a day off for that, and a bunch of other things I need to take care of.

[jloome]

http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/25680333

BBC reporting Defoe's wage to be 68k pounds/wk (110k US), potentially going up to 90k pounds/week. (150k US)

Harry Redknapp endorses playing over here:
http://www.insidefutbol.com/2014/01/10/great-lifestyle-great-set-up-former-us-veteran-harry-redknapp-backs-jermain-defoe-toronto-fc-move/121093/

[Red CB Toronto]

The Spurs Crystal Palace match is about to kickoff on TSN2, with Defoe on the bench. Will be interesting to see if Jermain makes an appearance before his flight to Toronto tomorrow.

[Gilberto9]

DEFOE In, Soldado out in the 57th minute.

[pdubs]

defoe almost scored too lol

[Sopo]

Defoe scores!

[Gilberto9]

Goal - Jermaine Defoe!

[Red CB Toronto]

Amazing, that is what we have to look forward to. amazing

[Banjax]

save some for MLS :)

[notthesun]

Now that the transfer is done he can score all he wants. :D

Can't wait for him to come over.

[tfcleeds]

I was under the impression he was already in town - guess I was wrong!

[kuku]

Toronto FC 1 - Crystal Palace 0

[Red CB Toronto]

I was under the impression he was already in town - guess I was wrong!
Flying in tomorrow according to reports.

[Oblio2]

Im going Monday....BOOM

"He scores when he wants
he scores when he wants
Jermain Defoe.....
he scores when he wants"

"Hes short
he's quick
Hes got a massive dick
Jermain defoe...Jermain Defoe"


"Hes small.....
hes red...
He cant get on his bed...
Jermaine Defoe...."

[backbeat]

and he scores to put the Spurs up 2-0

[Ivy]

I don't understand what the deal is...
the guy scores goals, and Saldado doesnt... Why can't he get a start?

[pdubs]

I don't understand what the deal is...
the guy scores goals, and Saldado doesnt... Why can't he get a start?

didn't they spend about 20-30 million pounds on Soldado? maybe they feel obligated lol

[Technorgasm]

Im going Monday....BOOM

"He scores when he wants
he scores when he wants
Jermain Defoe.....
he scores when he wants"

"Hes short
he's quick
Hes got a massive dick
Jermain defoe...Jermain Defoe"


"Hes small.....
hes red...
He cant get on his bed...
Jermaine Defoe...."

http://s3.amazonaws.com/br-cdn/temp_images/2014/01/11/Defoe.gif?syndication=128817

[PopePouri]

http://s3.amazonaws.com/br-cdn/temp_images/2014/01/11/Defoe.gif?syndication=128817

Who needs service when you take 2 defenders out of the play.

Hell of a finish.

[Joe Kool]

Awesome!!!

[dupont]

What a great goal.

[jloome]

Who needs service when you take 2 defenders out of the play.

Hell of a finish.

He and Robbie Keane play a similar game but Keane's thing is finding a few yards. Defoe can create them himself with footwork. Of the two, Defoe has more potential to really light up MLS. Considering what Keane has done in league (and Di Vaio, another smaller striker who relies on great balance) we should have a guy challenging DeRo's 15-goal record.

[tonyb]

do you guy's realise how good he is, just hope you have enough talent to read his game, pure quality at 31, watched him today, do you know what you are getting? am a big Beckham fan but on his day this guy is awesome, watched football forum today, the pundits thought at least 15 prem teams should have taken him on, an awesome signing.

[Jack]

I am stoked to have him, for sure. I think he will do well, though I agree that we need to make sure he gets his service. That said, we've upgraded the creative part of our team with the recent signings, so I hope it will work.

[CretanBull]

do you guy's realise how good he is, just hope you have enough talent to read his game, pure quality at 31, watched him today, do you know what you are getting? am a big Beckham fan but on his day this guy is awesome, watched football forum today, the pundits thought at least 15 prem teams should have taken him on, an awesome signing.

I'm curious, have you watched the MLS before? I have very high hopes for Dafoe and I appreciate his talent but this league is pretty rough and dirty - as an example, Robbie Keane has been a better MLS player than Thierry Henry has been. We've upgraded our mid-field (we've also signed Michael Bradley from Roma) so I'm confident that Dafoe will get service - my main concern is how he'll adapt to the constant holding and getting hacked down with hard fouls.

[trane]

Di Vaio is a great comparison to Defoe, in many ways they are similar.

[ensco]

the pundits thought at least 15 prem teams should have taken him on, an awesome signing.

For this year, oh sure.

But was anyone else willing to give him 25M GBP or something guaranteed, regardless of performance?

[JuliquE]

I'm curious, have you watched the MLS before? I have very high hopes for Dafoe and I appreciate his talent but this league is pretty rough and dirty - as an example, Robbie Keane has been a better MLS player than Thierry Henry has been. We've upgraded our mid-field (we've also signed Michael Bradley from Roma) so I'm confident that Dafoe will get service - my main concern is how he'll adapt to the constant holding and getting hacked down with hard fouls.
To be fair, I think Keane joined them at a younger age than Henry and he also came into a side with the likes of Beckham and Donovan, with plenty of useful, if less sparkling, pieces and Bruce Arena at the helm. Henry joined to be the go-to guy and, in many ways, NYRB were still finding themselves, after some poor seasons, in recent past.

Not the fairest of comparisons to draw a frame of reference from.

[ginkster88]

Jermain is small but he's jacked and a tenacious little bastard. He loves fighting through traffic to create chances and is excellent at using his quick burst to create the separation he needs to finish.

I think the clutch and grab MLS will suit his style rather than hinder it.

[CretanBull]

To be fair, I think Keane joined them at a younger age than Henry and he also came into a side with the likes of Beckham and Donovan, with plenty of useful, if less sparkling, pieces and Bruce Arena at the helm. Henry joined to be the go-to guy and, in many ways, NYRB were still finding themselves, after some poor seasons, in recent past.

Not the fairest of comparisons to draw a frame of reference from.

Perhaps ignorantly, I'm assuming that someone in the UK hasn't seen many MLS games so I referred to players in this league that would be widely known over there. Acknowledging that every thing that you said is true, based on style of play I think that if Henry and Keane were traded for each other Keane would still be the better MLS player.

[ag futbol]

Both are good players for the league. Question is: how long does it take Defoe to get up to speed?

Henry and DiVaio took a while to reach their potential.

[Gazza]

Found myself a Spur's fan today. What a treat to watch. Can't wait to cheer him on in person. And what the hell happened to Saldado?

[ginkster88]

Found myself a Spur's fan today. What a treat to watch. Can't wait to cheer him on in person. And what the hell happened to Saldado?

Keep in mind Palace are an abysmal team and certain to be relegated.

[CretanBull]

Found myself a Spur's fan today. What a treat to watch. Can't wait to cheer him on in person. And what the hell happened to Saldado?

It's not uncommon for it to take a season for foreign players to adjust to the EPL...he'll be ok.

[Initial B]

How would Palace rate as an MLS squad?

[CretanBull]

How would Palace rate as an MLS squad?

The teams are built differently because the leagues have completely different styles. In terms of talent they'd be the best team in the MLS.

[Gazza]

It's not uncommon for it to take a season for foreign players to adjust to the EPL...he'll be ok.

He really seems disinterested. He was a favourite of mine in La Liga.

[CBTFC]

In terms of talent they'd be the best team in the MLS.

Would you say they could beat SKC's MLS Cup winning side?

[CretanBull]

He really seems disinterested. He was a favourite of mine in La Liga.

The EPL is a faster league, players typically have less time on the ball than they do in other leagues - it takes time to adjust and that adjustment period can be frustrating for players, especially when they're used to scoring goals they way he did for Valencia.

[CretanBull]

Would you say they could beat SKC's MLS Cup winning side?

Yeah, I think so - but I say again, the teams are built differently for the different styles of play in the respective leagues. Top to bottom the talent level of the players on Palace are higher than SKC, but as a team Palace would have a hard time dealing with the hack and slash, holding and hard tackling of the MLS. Because of the style Palace could struggle in a MLS game, but if Kansas went to England they'd get destroyed.

[burlington Red]

For this year, oh sure.

But was anyone else willing to give him 25M GBP or something guaranteed, regardless of performance?



we aren't

[UltraSuperMegaMo]

Yeah, I think so - but I say again, the teams are built differently for the different styles of play in the respective leagues. Top to bottom the talent level of the players on Palace are higher than SKC, but as a team Palace would have a hard time dealing with the hack and slash, holding and hard tackling of the MLS. Because of the style Palace could struggle in a MLS game, but if Kansas went to England they'd get destroyed.

You're not suggesting that the MLS is more physical than the Premier league or the Championship (where Palace are most at home)?

It's one of those impossible questions, cause basically it can only ever be a hypothetical. I don't know that Palace would win the MLS at a gallop. I think the bottom of the Premier league / Top of the Championship and the Top of the MLS aren't miles apart and I'd say the MLS is on the ups in its level of competitiveness. The other thing too, is that the level of talent and execution of the bottom teams in the Premier league can change so much from year to year. I'd say Palace are particularly poor by the relevant standards. Idk… a little OT, but related, is Yanick Sagbo that much better than CJ Sappong?

[ProfessorDamage]

Yeah, I think so - but I say again, the teams are built differently for the different styles of play in the respective leagues. Top to bottom the talent level of the players on Palace are higher than SKC, but as a team Palace would have a hard time dealing with the hack and slash, holding and hard tackling of the MLS. Because of the style Palace could struggle in a MLS game, but if Kansas went to England they'd get destroyed.

That's a crazy generalization and far from correct. I think there are more than a few MLS teams (Houston, Kansas, RSL for example) who could hold their own in the back half of the Prem. Their style would fit right in, and a team like Kansas has a lot more in common - current formation aside - with a side like Stoke than you're giving them credit for. I think Houston could take Sunderland apart and I think QPR on a good day would have a rough go against RSL.

"If Kansas went to England they'd get destroyed." Really? You don't see Kansas stealing points off Hull City? Or West Brom? Or Fulham? Or West Ham? A harsh critic, you.

[GuelphStorm2007]

My only concern is that I hope our midfield can distribute the ball to him and he can gel with his new teammates in due time other than that lets hope we can hold on to leads I n the dying minutes.

[PopePouri]

Kinda surreal that we were talked about on MOTD. How far we have come.

[trane]

^ no Kansas would not steal points from Hull CIty, West Brom, Fulham, West Ham. No MLS team is organized and tactically sound enough to win in competitive games against top level teams in the worlds top five leagues, a one off fluke win sure, not look too bad, but to compete against them on a regular basis not way. Top level European teams are not easy to brake down, and will have several players that will be able to capitalize on the mistakes that even the best MLS teams invariably make. Sure if they came in underestimating the competition they could be surprised, but if they come in ready to play forget it.

[trane]

My only concern is that I hope our midfield can distribute the ball to him and he can gel with his new teammates in due time other than that lets hope we can hold on to leads I n the dying minutes.

Bradley is not Pirlo, but he could be Pirlo like in the MLS, he has good vision and makes intelligent and well weighted passes, he just needs partners in the midfield to ensure that they do shut him down with extra marking.

[Ultra & Proud]

Based on some comments here I'd say some people are basing MLS play on the dreck we peddled weekly for the past couple years. It's not all so shite. You get what you get with teams rocking a sub $3M payroll but this league is hardly hack and slash. Go watch a SPL match and learn what physical play truly means. MLS ain't even close. What we are is typical North American in demands. Athleticism and speed trump technical ability and the biggest problem for good players here isn't the "hack and slash" but the getting swarmed and getting no time on the ball. That's the main reason why our central & south American contingent in MLS has thrived. Our play they can adapt to. Go ask Izaguirre about what playing hack and slash is all about. He knows now.

[Ultra & Proud]

o
^ no Kansas would not steal points from Hull CIty, West Brom, Fulham, West Ham. No MLS team is organized and tactically sound enough to win in competitive games against top level teams in the worlds top five leagues, a one off fluke win sure, not look too bad, but to compete against them on a regular basis not way. Top level European teams are not easy to brake down, and will have several players that will be able to capitalize on the mistakes that even the best MLS teams invariably make. Sure if they came in underestimating the competition they could be surprised, but if they come in ready to play forget it.

Give our teams unlimited payrolls like the afore mentioned teams have and MLS holds up. Compare MLS to leagues with similar payroll restraints and dollar for dollar, MLS is better, easy. Comparing our best squad to ones with 10 to 100 times our payroll is just stupid. Surely we all get this fact by now, no?

[CretanBull]

The MLS is definitely a rougher league - a lot of the tackles and half of the holding, clutching and grabbing that we see in this league would never pass in England. The MLS is a more basic league in general, that's not meant as a dis - I'm just saying that it's a more straight-forward league. In the Prem, players have very little time on the ball everything happens very quickly, most often a play involves a very quick series of decisions and actions that requires a high level of instinct that comes from training and playing at high levels from childhood.

That's not a style of play that most MLS players are capable of. Most of the play that we see here is very system-based.

Most of the players -I'm not talking about the stars and standouts, I'm talking about the bulk of the players who make up the league - are about 5 years behind similar aged players in Europe in terms of their development. The American college system doesn't come close to producing players with the same soccer IQ as the European academies do, but they do turn out athletes - big, strong, physical players who rely on their raw athleticism to get by on. They're athletes who play soccer rather than soccer players - if you get what I mean by that distinction.

I don't want to get distracted by this player vs that player discussions because it's not really relevant to the conversation...the question asked is how I think Crystal Palace (not Hull) compare to MLS teams and I'm confident in my answer. You can't really compare one team vs another because they're built with different intentions, but as a whole a bad team like Palace has far more over-all talent than a good team like Kansas has.

[trane]

o

Give our teams unlimited payrolls like the afore mentioned teams have and MLS holds up. Compare MLS to leagues with similar payroll restraints and dollar for dollar, MLS is better, easy. Comparing our best squad to ones with 10 to 100 times our payroll is just stupid. Surely we all get this fact by now, no?

I do not disagree but he was comparing it to teams in the EPL, and those teams have larger payroll and access to top professional players and coaches, hence I stand my comments, we may not be bad for the payroll, and we are improving, but the top leagues are still far ahead of us.

[CretanBull]

^ no Kansas would not steal points from Hull CIty, West Brom, Fulham, West Ham. No MLS team is organized and tactically sound enough to win in competitive games against top level teams in the worlds top five leagues, a one off fluke win sure, not look too bad, but to compete against them on a regular basis not way. Top level European teams are not easy to brake down, and will have several players that will be able to capitalize on the mistakes that even the best MLS teams invariably make. Sure if they came in underestimating the competition they could be surprised, but if they come in ready to play forget it.

Agreed!

[CretanBull]

That's a crazy generalization and far from correct. I think there are more than a few MLS teams (Houston, Kansas, RSL for example) who could hold their own in the back half of the Prem. Their style would fit right in, and a team like Kansas has a lot more in common - current formation aside - with a side like Stoke than you're giving them credit for. I think Houston could take Sunderland apart and I think QPR on a good day would have a rough go against RSL.

"If Kansas went to England they'd get destroyed." Really? You don't see Kansas stealing points off Hull City? Or West Brom? Or Fulham? Or West Ham? A harsh critic, you.

I'm not dismissing the MLS, I'm a fan of this league. But in terms of organization, tactics and the general soccer IQ of the bulk of the players in this league it doesn't compare to any top European league let alone the Premiership. I don't think that the best MLS team could break down the worst Premiership backline with any kind of regularity. If Sunderland played the best MLS team 10 times they're getting at least 8 or 9 wins.

[trane]

The MLS is definitely a rougher league - a lot of the tackles and half of the holding, clutching and grabbing that we see in this league would never pass in England. The MLS is a more basic league in general, that's not meant as a dis - I'm just saying that it's a more straight-forward league. In the Prem, players have very little time on the ball everything happens very quickly, most often a play involves a very quick series of decisions and actions that requires a high level of instinct that comes from training and playing at high levels from childhood.

That's not a style of play that most MLS players are capable of. Most of the play that we see here is very system-based.

Most of the players -I'm not talking about the stars and standouts, I'm talking about the bulk of the players who make up the league - are about 5 years behind similar aged players in Europe in terms of their development. The American college system doesn't come close to producing players with the same soccer IQ as the European academies do, but they do turn out athletes - big, strong, physical players who rely on their raw athleticism to get by on. They're athletes who play soccer rather than soccer players - if you get what I mean by that distinction.

I don't want to get distracted by this player vs that player discussions because it's not really relevant to the conversation...the question asked is how I think Crystal Palace (not Hull) compare to MLS teams and I'm confident in my answer. You can't really compare one team vs another because they're built with different intentions, but as a whole a bad team like Palace has far more over-all talent than a good team like Kansas has.

That is the point. Even if you talk about system based , in Europe top league players may have to learn the nounces of how the manager wants them to play in his preferred system, here they have to be taught like if they are teenagers how to play the basic form of relatively standard systems.

[trane]

I'm not dismissing the MLS, I'm a fan of this league. But in terms of organization, tactics and the general soccer IQ of the bulk of the players in this league it doesn't compare to any top European league let alone the Premiership. I don't think that the best MLS team could break down the worst Premiership backline with any kind of regularity. If Sunderland played the best MLS team 10 times they're getting at least 8 or 9 wins.

Again agreed.

[flatpicker]

What's this thread about?

[khso11]

According to Jason DeVos, Defoe is to be in Toronto today. Assuming he takes a direct flight; 7 flights arriving from London today starting at 10:55 am, and the timing is all over the map. 1 Air Transat, 4 AC, and 2 British Airways. ASSUMING he took the British Airways flight, he should be here at 2:50 pm. Any plans to welcome him at the airport? (Of course we need more info in order to do that)

Source: http://www.torontopearson.com/en/flights/schedules/#

[tfcleeds]

According to Jason DeVos, Defoe is to be in Toronto today. Assuming he takes a direct flight; 7 flights arriving from London today starting at 10:55 am, and the timing is all over the map. 1 Air Transat, 4 AC, and 2 British Airways. ASSUMING he took the British Airways flight, he should be here at 2:50 pm. Any plans to welcome him at the airport? (Of course we need more info in order to do that)

Source: http://www.torontopearson.com/en/flights/schedules/#

I looked at the flights yesterday, and assumed he'd be taking BA. (The cattle class you get on Air Transat seems to be a bit beneath a millionaire pro athlete, haha). So I assume he'll be arriving at 2:50. g:D

[tfcleeds]

Defoe interview:

http://www1.skysports.com/watch/video/9112830/defoe-ready-to-play-for-his-country

Q: "How excited are you about finally getting to Canada"?

A: "Excited. It's cold, but I'm excited".

[Haddy]

I looked at the flights yesterday, and assumed he'd be taking BA. (The cattle class you get on Air Transat seems to be a bit beneath a millionaire pro athlete, haha). So I assume he'll be arriving at 2:50. g:D

My money is on a private jet courtesy one of MLSE's owners.

[Kaz]

He may have been on a Air Canada flight.

the lady in the interview was wearing an Air Canada Altitude lanyard and dressed in the Air Canada garb.

[OgtheDim]

My money would be on AC 869 getting in at 1225. Get up early and get here early.

[ensco]

Someone tweeted this out 3 hours ago. He is flying commercial, he was at Heathrow today. Dressed like he's ready to join a polar expedition!

http://instagram.com/p/jEUAdqwt95/

[OgtheDim]

Gotta wear layers Jermain....layers. Man does look stylish though...and fit.

That would be the AC857 arriving at 3:19.

[TFC/Everton]

Gotta wear layers Jermain....layers. Man does look stylish though...and fit.

That would be the AC857 arriving at 3:19.

this is also my bet. I will be at the airport for 3pm.

[notthesun]

If only I didn't have my rollerblades in for repair today...

[tfcocd]

^ no Kansas would not steal points from Hull CIty, West Brom, Fulham, West Ham. No MLS team is organized and tactically sound enough to win in competitive games against top level teams in the worlds top five leagues, a one off fluke win sure, not look too bad, but to compete against them on a regular basis not way. Top level European teams are not easy to brake down, and will have several players that will be able to capitalize on the mistakes that even the best MLS teams invariably make. Sure if they came in underestimating the competition they could be surprised, but if they come in ready to play forget it.

Totally agree with this point. Like asking an American league hockey team with three NHL starters added to compete and beat full NHL squads. The weakest teams in the top tier leagues still have quality all over the pitch that MLS cannot match, its just a matter of payroll. Your Hull, Fulham squads etc would punish mistakes inevitably made by an MLS squad and the MLS teams are not as clinical on the counter. This doesn't mean MLS is not entertaining or has quality its just not fair to compare with teams that have 10* the payroll.

[ag futbol]

Come on guys, on pure economics alone there is absolutely no team in MLS that is going to compete in the premiership. The highest spending team our league spends around 15M dollars while the absolute bottom dwellers in the EPL typically spend around 15-20 million pounds, or approximately twice as much as our elite teams (and that doesn’t even include transfer fees). What’s more, they don’t have bizarre roster regulations where you spend all your money on three players. When an EPL left back on a proper salary faces down a MLS guy earning 1/10th as much, it’s going to be a slaughter every day of the week.

As far as physicality goes. MLS is physical, it is not world class like these other places are. You guys have seen TFC play these other teams in pre-season form. Does it not strike you how puny our players look in comparison to every EPL team that’s ever shown up here? Add on the superior skill level and the end result is MLS footballers are unable to wrestle control of the game. It’s hard to barge in on a guy when he’s strong enough to shield you off the ball but also tricky enough to wrong foot you. These are problems MLS defenders don’t face; if they did, they would have to defend much more cautiously.

MLS is improving but don't buy the hype that it's approaching the quality of some of the other leagues out there.

[ginkster88]

Classic Defoe, scoring in probably his final match for Tottenham, or at least his last before he is announced in Toronto.

He is a striker with a great sense of drama, and often manages to find the late, great goal.

Very excited for this season.

[flatpicker]

Gotta admit, this article stings a bit.

The MLS, as Sir Alex Ferguson notes in his latest autobiography, is too athletic to be derided as a Mickey Mouse league. Yet he still points out there were absolutely no football reasons for David Beckham making the move and that he suspects his old player probably regrets taking himself away from high-end football. As for Toronto – or "Ambitious Toronto", as the English press appear to have renamed them – they may have some money swilling around but their story is so undistinguished to this point it brings to mind an old quote from Rodney Marsh about the West Bromwich Albion side relegated in 2003. "They've made some new signings but it's like putting lipstick on a pig. It's still a pig."




http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2014/jan/11/jermain-defoe-tottenham-toronto-world-cup

[Richard]

Come on guys, on pure economics alone there is absolutely no team in MLS that is going to compete in the premiership. The highest spending team our league spends around 15M dollars while the absolute bottom dwellers in the EPL typically spend around 15-20 million pounds, or approximately twice as much as our elite teams (and that doesn’t even include transfer fees). What’s more, they don’t have bizarre roster regulations where you spend all your money on three players. When an EPL left back on a proper salary faces down a MLS guy earning 1/10th as much, it’s going to be a slaughter every day of the week.

As far as physicality goes. MLS is physical, it is not world class like these other places are. You guys have seen TFC play these other teams in pre-season form. Does it not strike you how puny our players look in comparison to every EPL team that’s ever shown up here? Add on the superior skill level and the end result is MLS footballers are unable to wrestle control of the game. It’s hard to barge in on a guy when he’s strong enough to shield you off the ball but also tricky enough to wrong foot you. These are problems MLS defenders don’t face; if they did, they would have to defend much more cautiously.

MLS is improving but don't buy the hype that it's approaching the quality of some of the other leagues out there.

Yeah that's a pretty good summary of the situation, its not even a fair comparison when you have 40k guys getting spot starts in this league.

[Detroit_TFC]

The quality gap is not so much in the starting XI but in the bench. A average MLS starting line up could probably cope (aside from the top Prem teams) but moment had to go to bench, they'd be cooked.

[ginkster88]

All that being said, I'll take "Ambitious" as a descriptor seven days of the week. God knows there are far more appropriate words to describe this club...

[ensco]

This weird mythology about MLS being so "physical" is really quite silly. All the elite leagues are more "physical".

MLS had got fifth-rate officials who can't control a game, and because of that the thugs here run amok.

[jloome]

Why?
I grew up there, and Britons are the biggest football snobs on Earth, despite not having won anything in 40 years and having an imbalanced leaguew with only four or five competitive teams.

Did anyone watch Sunderland-Southhampton a few weeks ago? Did it not look startling like an MLS match to anyone?

Nobody is more deluded about football than the English. They all think 'expert' is a birthright, that everything not English is crap. But when their own team comes up, they slag it, too.

The most telling part about that article? There are almost as many banned comments underneath as actual comments. That's what it means to try to have a discussion with someone English about football. No is more deluded (except maybe MLS.com types who keep insisting MLS teams could compete there day in and out, despite the cap).

[Ivy]

So is anybody going to Pearson? I'll buy a beer to who ever gets the first Defoe holding up a RPB scarf.

[CretanBull]

This weird mythology about MLS being so "physical" is really quite silly. All the elite leagues are more "physical".

MLS had got fifth-rate officials who can't control a game, and because of that the thugs here run amok.

That's what people are referring to when they talk about the physicality. To me there are two reasons for it - the raw athleticism of the bulk of the players combined with the horrible officiating that allows the physical play to go unpunished. Often times MLS backlines use holding & grabbing and midfields rely on late and (sometimes) dirty fouls to compensate for higher level skills.

[ag futbol]

Gotta admit, this article stings a bit.

The MLS, as Sir Alex Ferguson notes in his latest autobiography, is too athletic to be derided as a Mickey Mouse league. Yet he still points out there were absolutely no football reasons for David Beckham making the move and that he suspects his old player probably regrets taking himself away from high-end football. As for Toronto – or "Ambitious Toronto", as the English press appear to have renamed them – they may have some money swilling around but their story is so undistinguished to this point it brings to mind an old quote from Rodney Marsh about the West Bromwich Albion side relegated in 2003. "They've made some new signings but it's like putting lipstick on a pig. It's still a pig."




http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2014/jan/11/jermain-defoe-tottenham-toronto-world-cup
Depressing, but a pretty typical response to any club who splashes cash combined with some small minded insecurity.

Author strikes me as someone who probably rotates between giving lip service to Manchester United and bashing Arsen Wenger for ruining English football.

[Derko]

The quality gap is not so much in the starting XI but in the bench. A average MLS starting line up could probably cope (aside from the top Prem teams) but moment had to go to bench, they'd be cooked.

I was just going to mention that point myself, we all must remember that a majority of the top teams in the EPL or any other of the top leagues in Europe have at least 22 if not 33 starting calibre players. Look at the likes of Blackpool and others in the Championship, they just don't have the bench and squad to compete consistently.

Back on course, I am pleased with the progress thus far. Welcome Jermaine

[Pookie]

EPL vs MLS?

It would be a little like comparing the American Hockey League to the NHL.

By definition the MLS is a development league meant to cultivate players to improve their national programs. The best in the US don't play there long (or some times at all) but they most likely benefited from the USSF pyramid in some way, along the way.

While MLS aspires to be a top flight league, its roots and its current reason for being are squarely on the development side.

Perhaps a fairer, apples to apples debate is to explore the English development system vs USA. With both countries ranked 13th and 14th respectively, the differences between "football IQ" might not be that significant.

Anyways, as for Defoe the Spurs fan at the beach side bar i sat with yesterday at this resort says he's got a lot left in him. Take that to the bank.

[Haddy]

"They've made some new signings but it's like putting lipstick on a pig. It's still a pig."




http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2014/jan/11/jermain-defoe-tottenham-toronto-world-cup

Pretty cute if you ask me.

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_HoDij8Z2tHY/TPZsizSiVjI/AAAAAAAAE6g/kr972UQFtAU/s1600/Lipstick%2Bon%2BPig.jpg

[ensco]

That article is amusing.

Our infamous club, that on a good day two weeks ago got maybe 25 people to care enough to come on this site, is suddenly today the worldwide enemy of millions of England (and USMNT) fans.

It is a day for all of us, the very, very, very few who have cared about this little team throughout, to smile.

[MightyDM]

That article is amusing.

Our infamous club, that on a good day two weeks ago got maybe 25 people to care enough to come on this site, is suddenly today the worldwide enemy of millions of England (and USMNT) fans.

It is a day for all of us, the very, very, very few who have cared about this little team throughout, to smile.

Bingo! Likely your best post ever, Ensco!

[Flipityflu]

on his way

http://www1.skysports.com/watch/video/9112830/defoe-ready-to-play-for-his-country

[reggie]

I think he is here already...

[notthesun]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BdzxHMqIcAAy4Hy.jpg

[khso11]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BdzxHMqIcAAy4Hy.jpg

Amazing!!!! So which flight was it? Is it the AC flight?

[Chevy]

Come on guys, on pure economics alone there is absolutely no team in MLS that is going to compete in the premiership. The highest spending team our league spends around 15M dollars while the absolute bottom dwellers in the EPL typically spend around 15-20 million pounds, or approximately twice as much as our elite teams (and that doesn’t even include transfer fees). What’s more, they don’t have bizarre roster regulations where you spend all your money on three players. When an EPL left back on a proper salary faces down a MLS guy earning 1/10th as much, it’s going to be a slaughter every day of the week.

As far as physicality goes. MLS is physical, it is not world class like these other places are. You guys have seen TFC play these other teams in pre-season form. Does it not strike you how puny our players look in comparison to every EPL team that’s ever shown up here? Add on the superior skill level and the end result is MLS footballers are unable to wrestle control of the game. It’s hard to barge in on a guy when he’s strong enough to shield you off the ball but also tricky enough to wrong foot you. These are problems MLS defenders don’t face; if they did, they would have to defend much more cautiously.

MLS is improving but don't buy the hype that it's approaching the quality of some of the other leagues out there.


Agreed. I remember when West Ham showed up and going "Holy shit these guys are huge", it was blatantly obvious. Despite all the hype and high profile signings over the years MLS is probably the 20th best league in the world, and I think i'm being generous here. Do I think that KC could steal some points off a EPL club? Sure, they would win a few games and draw a bunch more but that's the extent of it really.

[rocktml]

Holy Crap he is here!!!!

[Klinsmann]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Bdz2mSZIYAAdAU-.jpg:large

[OgtheDim]

Pryzby's scarf that.

[flatpicker]

My excitement level just went up a few notches.

[Gazza]

"He's short,
He's red,
His favourite show is Father Ted!"

He's going to tear th....

[tonyb]

am shocked at your signing, problem for you is how long before your players get on his wavelength, stunning player, as said before, cannot believe you have signed him, maybe 31 but the most athletic signing by a north american club, awesome.

[Pint]

a potential round of:

He signs who he wants
He signed who he wants
TIM LIEWEKE
He signs who he wants

[mowe]

am shocked at your signing, problem for you is how long before your players get on his wavelength, stunning player, as said before, cannot believe you have signed him, maybe 31 but the most athletic signing by a north american club, awesome.

Cheers

[Greatest Ripoff]

Really hope the increased exposure in England from Defoe means more TFC matches on BT sport.

[james]

Any MLS Club would probably get some wins, ties and mostly loses, they would most likely get relegated. Some teams might beable to stay up in the Championship, others might be more likely to compete at the League One standards, and team like TFC would of been in League 2 or lower. That said who cares, this is our League, and there is a lot of leagues in Europe that besides the top 2 or 3 clubs, the rest of the league is shit. And to be honest those leagues can be more boring then MLS because the same 2 or 3 teams win the league every year, and the gap between the top clubs and the lower clubs is HUGE. In MLS the gaps are close and anyone can win.

[mowe]

Defoe speaks: http://www.tsn.ca/videohub/?collection=72&show=273142

[UltraSuperMegaMo]

I'm very presently surprised how a big a story this is in the main stream media, both sports and otherwise.

[TFC/Everton]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BdzxHMqIcAAy4Hy.jpg

I took this photo.

The scraf was given to Jermain from Prizby. He came over and shook our hands and seems like an overall very good guy.

I can't wait for the season to start!

[burlington Red]

Why?
I grew up there, and Britons are the biggest football snobs on Earth, despite not having won anything in 40 years and having an imbalanced leaguew with only four or five competitive teams.

Did anyone watch Sunderland-Southhampton a few weeks ago? Did it not look startling like an MLS match to anyone?

Nobody is more deluded about football than the English. They all think 'expert' is a birthright, that everything not English is crap. But when their own team comes up, they slag it, too.

The most telling part about that article? There are almost as many banned comments underneath as actual comments. That's what it means to try to have a discussion with someone English about football. No is more deluded (except maybe MLS.com types who keep insisting MLS teams could compete there day in and out, despite the cap).

in recent times, "britons" as you call them have won 3 Champions leagues.
If u think Sunderland v Soton was MLS standard, incredible, the fact that Sunderland have USMNT team main striker and he can't even get on for them should tell u all u need to know about the standard.
They only have 4-5 competitive teams u claim, no other major league has that many. Most have 2-3 at most who can win their domestic league.They have the most open league this season in Europe with any of 4 teams with a genuine chance of legitimately winning it.

[reggie]

I love the EPL,but how good would it be if they had a 3 mil cap and limited imports..

[Greatest Ripoff]

Yeah I also call bs on the English being football snobs. If they are snobs then whey are non league teams drawing crowds of over 5,000?

[akoto]

that article is amusing.

Our infamous club, that on a good day two weeks ago got maybe 25 people to care enough to come on this site, is suddenly today the worldwide enemy of millions of england (and usmnt) fans.

It is a day for all of us, the very, very, very few who have cared about this little team throughout, to smile.

love this post!

[backbeat]

That article is amusing.

Our infamous club, that on a good day two weeks ago got maybe 25 people to care enough to come on this site, is suddenly today the worldwide enemy of millions of England (and USMNT) fans.

It is a day for all of us, the very, very, very few who have cared about this little team throughout, to smile.


been here since day one... i would love to see BMO packed and loud once again....this has surely brought a smile and tomorrow i will be beaming....

i haven't said this for so long but i am looking forward to the start of the season......

[billyfly]

Showing Defoe's reaction as the drove by BMO.....I wonder what he was thinking?

[billyfly]

That article is amusing.

Our infamous club, that on a good day two weeks ago got maybe 25 people to care enough to come on this site, is suddenly today the worldwide enemy of millions of England (and USMNT) fans.

It is a day for all of us, the very, very, very few who have cared about this little team throughout, to smile.

The Leaf thread keeps this website going.

[ManUtd4ever]

The last time I was this jacked up for the season was in 2009. Mind you, I think this team has more potential.

[prizby]

spur (no pun intended) of the moment decision to go to the airport. Had just gotten back to Toronto, decided to turn around and go out to the airport; was worth it; I think Jermain was a bit surprised there were even fans waiting his arrival.

[rocktml]

Was he at the Leafs game?

[Nerepis]

That article is amusing.

Our infamous club, that on a good day two weeks ago got maybe 25 people to care enough to come on this site, is suddenly today the worldwide enemy of millions of England (and USMNT) fans.

It is a day for all of us, the very, very, very few who have cared about this little team throughout, to smile.

I love this post!

[Shakes McQueen]

Haha, I see Prizby, and OgTheDim, and a few other recognizable names in the comments for that Guardian story, fighting for our team. Doing the country proud, boys!

- Scott

[Shakes McQueen]

That article is amusing.

Our infamous club, that on a good day two weeks ago got maybe 25 people to care enough to come on this site, is suddenly today the worldwide enemy of millions of England (and USMNT) fans.

It is a day for all of us, the very, very, very few who have cared about this little team throughout, to smile.

I am drinking their tears!

- Scott

[Shakes McQueen]

One of the comments:

""There's something soul-destroying about TFC's sad ... history. The FC stands for 'futility club'. Coaches and executives come and go. Players come and go. But TFC stays stalled.

Sounds like perfect preparation for England."

SLAMMED.

- Scott

[Ivy]

Why is everyone still talking about that guardian article like it's the first article that has ever bashed TFC?

[flatpicker]

Globe and Mail and Toronto Sun have come out against that Gaurdian story.

[Shakes McQueen]

Why is everyone still talking about that guardian article like it's the first article that has ever bashed TFC?

Because it has a ton of comments, and people are enjoying the apoplectic reaction.

- Scott

[flatpicker]

Why is everyone still talking about that guardian article like it's the first article that has ever bashed TFC?

Probably because we are accustomed to having local media bash us, but when it's an outsider throwing the team under the bus it still hits a nerve.

[ManUtd4ever]

Believe it or not, there are also many MLS fans and football supporters abroad that have voiced their support for TFC in the aftermath of these monumental signings.

We deserve a winning team damn it!

[ManUtd4ever]

Apparently, MLSE showed a video of Defoe arriving at Pearson and being driven from the airport at the ACC during the Leaf game tonight, LOL.

[Derko]

The Leaf thread keeps this website going.

Surely you jest

[reggie]

one more sleep:flare:

[Inklink]

Apparently, MLSE showed a video of Defoe arriving at Pearson and being driven from the airport at the ACC during the Leaf game tonight, LOL.

It was definitely on the LeafsTV broadcast, not sure if it was on the big screen @ ACC during the game though. Either way, it was him coming through the doors @ the airport, shaking a few hands, then a ride past BMO with him looking out the window. Wonder if it was the same car that Terry Dunfield made his maiden voyage to downtown in :)

[Joe Kool]

http://www.torontofc.ca/video/2014/01/12/jermain-defoe-arrives-toronto

[OgtheDim]

Haha, I see Prizby, and OgTheDim, and a few other recognizable names in the comments for that Guardian story, fighting for our team. Doing the country proud, boys!

- Scott

I know the Guardian tends to be cynically judgemental; but the discussion on there is of a self-selecting cynical judgementalism that I usually only see in people with a profound belief system. They say Football is religion I suppose....(And I'm Mennonite, and have studied sociology of religion, so I know all about cynical judgmentalism of those beyond the group to prove to yourself what you believe is correct.)

I'm half expecting proof texts.:)


People on there seem to be struggling with the idea that a league who's quality of play makes it unwatchable to their standards can still have a decent player that they have enjoyed watching participate in and help that team succeed. Its like they can't admit that maybe Defoe has potential here to do well within the context of MLS because MLS is wrong for them.

They either have to say that Defoe isn't any good, or is too old, or they desperately then pivot to the idea that said player is coming to a crappy team, so he's obviously making a big mistake, which seems to be the article writer's point.

When confronted on the crappy team bit, they retreat to "the league is crap so I don't watch" or "results are all that matters in judging a team", both of which would exclude anybody from judging anybody in any pre-season evaluation, which is ultimately what that article s - an evaluation of TFC as it currently sits.

As I said, self-selecting cynical judgmentalism.


That and the article is cruddy journalism.

[loconet]

http://distilleryimage6.ak.instagram.com/7865a3527c0c11e38a2a12fcb5e34356_8.jpg

[Richard]

So excited.

[TFC/Everton]

http://distilleryimage6.ak.instagram.com/7865a3527c0c11e38a2a12fcb5e34356_8.jpg

I'd love to see them link up on A LOT of goals this year.

[RealG-TFC]

Totally OT but I wonder what bar they are in. In any case, this photo makes me all warm inside.

[TFC07]

RE: Guardian article

People here need to realize British media always tends to be negative especially when comes to North Americans. Do you guys remember how British media bash Canada during Vancouver Winter games? How many negative articles were written by British to a point that pissed off a lot of Canadians while our media fired back at British for 2012 London summer games?

http://ca.sports.yahoo.com/blogs/eh-game/canadian-british-media-war-over-2012-olympics-163040259.html

[Ivy]

Totally OT but I wonder what bar they are in. In any case, this photo makes me all warm inside.
This Is London.

Ill let myself out.

[The Black Pearl]

omg omg omg

[brad]

Probably because we are accustomed to having local media bash us, but when it's an outsider throwing the team under the bus it still hits a nerve.

I have no issue with being thrown under the bus if it is in an informed fashion - we deserve it as we have been dreadful since our inception. The issue with that article is that it does not deal with the present and does not discuss the change of ownership, exec, ect. KJ said it best we he alluded to it being like writing an article about City being bad when they got bought out but making no mention of the new owners and changes they are bringing.

[TOBOR !]

Why?
I grew up there, and Britons are the biggest football snobs on Earth, despite not having won anything in 40 years and having an imbalanced leaguew with only four or five competitive teams.

Did anyone watch Sunderland-Southhampton a few weeks ago? Did it not look startling like an MLS match to anyone?

Nobody is more deluded about football than the English. They all think 'expert' is a birthright, that everything not English is crap. But when their own team comes up, they slag it, too.

The most telling part about that article? There are almost as many banned comments underneath as actual comments. That's what it means to try to have a discussion with someone English about football. No is more deluded (except maybe MLS.com types who keep insisting MLS teams could compete there day in and out, despite the cap).

You've used broad strokes there, haven't you ?

[spritorac]

RE: Guardian article

People here need to realize British media always tends to be negative especially when comes to North Americans. Do you guys remember how British media bash Canada during Vancouver Winter games? How many negative articles were written by British to a point that pissed off a lot of Canadians while our media fired back at British for 2012 London summer games?

http://ca.sports.yahoo.com/blogs/eh-game/canadian-british-media-war-over-2012-olympics-163040259.html

As a Spurs fan in Britain I've been following this signing with some interest and I wish Defoe all the best in Toronto.

That said, one thing I'd point out is that the British media is simply negative. The thing people seem to not realise (whether it's comments about Mexico on Top Gear or criticising the Vancouver Olympics) is that however negative the British press is about other countries, it is 100 times more negative about our own. You only need to look at today's Daily Mail headline of 'What sort of country gives £1.2m benefits to an odious family like this? The drug-dealing dad, his 22 children (including an armed robber and a murderer) and state handouts that prove Britain's lost its marbles' to see that. Sure we're sneery about you, but that's just the way our press is, no need to take it personally.

[flamehawk]

Apparently, MLSE showed a video of Defoe arriving at Pearson and being driven from the airport at the ACC during the Leaf game tonight, LOL.

Curious what the reaction from hockey fans was.

[TOBOR !]

http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2014/jan/11/jermain-defoe-tottenham-toronto-world-cup

Meh. Full marks for pointing out that Toronto is in Canada, other than that, unresearched drivel.

A few quotes taken from a G&M article, some stats taken out of context, and a desperate Rob Ford reference.

Nothing to get up in arms about.

[Oblio2]

I am so excited today.
Whos going this afternoon?

[Oldtimer]

Sure we're sneery about you, but that's just the way our press is, no need to take it personally.

Thanks for the information. We tend to take things at face value, not knowing as well the media culture in Britain.

[Waggy]

Eh, I don't see what the fuss is about any negative article. Realistically, our 7 year history is shambolic and nothing we do or say and nothing the club does in the offseason can change our reputation. What can change it? In the words of the great Al Davis- just win baby. Guardian can write whatever it wants. The England and USMNT supporters can say whatever they want. Just win. That's how opinions change. If we *touch wood* become the invincibles of MLS, the tunes'll change. If we're competing for the supporters shield and in the playoffs, we'll stop being looked down on. If we can somehow make the club world cup and give a scare to a 'big' club, people'll stop and notice. Anyone can say whatever they like, but we'll see them on the pitch. And they better bring their A game. Just win baby. Just win.

[ensco]

Is the 11am event on GolTV?

[mastermixer]

Is the 11am event on GolTV?

Not sure, but it's on Sportsnet and TSN starting at 10:30am

[Red Rat]

That Guardian article made me laugh so hard. It reminds me of the old friday joke thread on the old board. haaaaa hold on is this the old board?

[mowe]

Not sure, but it's on Sportsnet and TSN starting at 10:30am

Also being streamed on torontofc.ca, sportsnet,ca, and tsn.ca. You can't miss it.

[Fort York Redcoat]

Eh, I don't see what the fuss is about any negative article. Realistically, our 7 year history is shambolic and nothing we do or say and nothing the club does in the offseason can change our reputation. What can change it? In the words of the great Al Davis- just win baby. Guardian can write whatever it wants. The England and USMNT supporters can say whatever they want. Just win. That's how opinions change. If we *touch wood* become the invincibles of MLS, the tunes'll change. If we're competing for the supporters shield and in the playoffs, we'll stop being looked down on. If we can somehow make the club world cup and give a scare to a 'big' club, people'll stop and notice. Anyone can say whatever they like, but we'll see them on the pitch. And they better bring their A game. Just win baby. Just win.


Did you just touch wood?g:D

England and the US boo fucking who. Has there ever been a Canadian player that left to play abroad?


Yeah that's right. AND they took their nationality with them so cry me a fn river. They can dry their eyes on their bloody World Cup tickets.

But I'm not bitter today! Honest!

[RealG-TFC]

Welp it's in the papers. Kinda tacky/neat back page cover for this morning's metro newspaper.
http://instagram.com/p/jHK_lvxuv-/

[OgtheDim]

You can't buy that back page and do that stuff without the deal having been signed at least 2 weeks ago.

[OgtheDim]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Ljdf3hcY0o

[RealG-TFC]

This Is London.

Ill let myself out.

Hah! I actually found out too. Cibo Wine Bar on King West. I miss the days this board was at the forefront of info and i would surprise my friends by keeping up to date with the team down to little nuances. Twitter/instagram has made it too easy. At least we have a squadron of rollerbladers though.

[Jack]

I just want to see my Reds win. England and the USA's national teams are not really my concern. If Tim&Tim can sign the best players possible, then where they were born means about as much to me as a Bill Archer column.

[mowe]

Man, TFC really pulling out all the stops for this announcement. It's working too, the buzz around the team is incredible (helped by the Bradley signing too of course).

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Bd3mqoJCEAI2i9U.jpg:large

[Waggy]

Did you just touch wood?g:D

England and the US boo fucking who. Has there ever been a Canadian player that left to play abroad?


Yeah that's right. AND they took their nationality with them so cry me a fn river. They can dry their eyes on their bloody World Cup tickets.

But I'm not bitter today! Honest!

I've been touching wood since tuesday! Starting to get a little sore :)

SO. EXCITED.

[Milanista]

What an amazing morning...Milan Fire Allegri (worse manager in the Berlusconi era), TFC set to sign Defoe and Bradley and its plus outside!

[Canary10]

RPB was just mentioned on Sportsnet for hanging banners at RealSports. Nice!

[Shakes McQueen]

Sportsnet showed Defoe seeing BMO Field for the first time a few minutes ago - nothing newsworthy, but I wonder what he was thinking.

"The fuck is this?" Haha.

- Scott

[tfcleeds]

I honestly can't remember such a buzz around any Toronto sports franchise transaction in the last little while, and that includes Jays or Leafs.

[Canary10]

^ Seriously. Live coverage on the two sports networks? Crazy!

[tfcleeds]

^Not to mention billboards on the Gardiner, etc. Well, I guess that's what Leiweke excels at, haha.

[Milanista]

Toronto loves Soccer...I've played it and coached it all my life and you can see the growth of the game, for crying out loud there aren't enough fields around to keep up with the demand of registration. This move can be a huge bump to the game in Toronto, kinda like how the Raptors helped so many kids with basketball...hope this works out well and TFC become a powerhouse

[khso11]

today is a great day for all tfc fans!

[dupont]

I honestly can't remember such a buzz around any Toronto sports franchise transaction in the last little while, and that includes Jays or Leafs.

The Jays had HUGE buzz after their trades last off season and the Leafs were being talked about everywhere because they made the playoffs last year.... but I agree that the buzz is the very high for TFC right now.

[Canary10]

^ They can create buzz much more easily. Different story for soccer. Amazing to see this amount of coverage for a (local) soccer story.

[Milanista]

The Jays had HUGE buzz after their trades last off season and the Leafs were being talked about everywhere because they made the playoffs last year.... but I agree that the buzz is the very high for TFC right now.

The leafs are only a buzz in toronto and parts of canada...jays were a buzz all over NA...but tfc is being spoken about in england, all over NA, england and even italy lol

[notthesun]

Haha they just showed the full length spit-take video on TFC, good stuff.

[tfcleeds]

^ They can create buzz much more easily. Different story for soccer. Amazing to see this amount of coverage for a (local) soccer story.

This is what I mean. This story is getting the level attention usually only reserved for Leafs and Jays. For TFC, this is huge. Two networks with live broadcasts? That up until now just doesn't happen with TFC.

[billyfly]

Sportsnet showed Defoe seeing BMO Field for the first time a few minutes ago - nothing newsworthy, but I wonder what he was thinking.

"The fuck is this?" Haha.

- Scott

I posted the same thing yesterday. They showed it during the Leaf game.

[Voodooman]

Haha they just showed the full length spit-take video on TFC, good stuff.

I actually bursted out laughing in the middle of class

[Shakes McQueen]

I love Martin Tyler's voice, man.

- Scott

[pdubs]

the full video is gold