Johann Smith Signs

[Wooster_TFC]

Who?

TFC sign Wanderer; Edu sold to SPL? (http://sportsnet.ca/soccer/2008/08/15/edu_transfer_rangers/)

[Shaughno]

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

Hardly think this is the solution to our problems...

[Wooster_TFC]

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

Hardly think this is the solution to our problems...

That was partly the reason for the "Who?" in my original post. Don't get the feeling he'll be giving us much more than striker depth.

I seriously hope this isn't the guy that they were "hoping to have by Sunday".

[denime]

Reds acquire forward Johann Smith (http://toronto.fc.mlsnet.com/news/team_news.jsp?ymd=20080815&content_id=180379&vkey=news_t280&fext=.jsp&team=t280)

[invictusTFC]

Wow... He's young, has loads of pace, and is a striker. I'm gonna have to give my hats off to Mo yet again.

This love/hate relationship I have with Mo is taking years away from my life...

[I_AM_CANADIAN]

Ugh. This better not be our major signing.

[Keegan]

YAY
A league 2 player! Great!

What is with the lack of faith in Canadians? Seriously you could easily find a better Canadian striker and younger too. Look at Marcus Haber and he's only 19

[Ladies Love Julius James]

Carver compares his pace to Wynne..I'll have to see before I make any judgement

[Lucky Strike]

If anyone is looking at his wiki, of the 19 appearances, only 11 were as a starter. So don't be took quick to judge his goal ratio. I know I won't but I'm still hoping there's more to come.

[Keegan]

Wow... He's young, has loads of pace, and is a striker. I'm gonna have to give my hats off to Mo yet again.

This love/hate relationship I have with Mo is taking years away from my life...

Nothing to write home about

Ibbe is better

[billyfly]

Another J.Smith! What will the back of the jersey say? Breakout the single name nicknames.

[bangersandmash]

What? No Messi?!

Just kidding, welcome to T.O. Johann. Nice to see some youth coming in up front.

[LucaGol]

Good, now lets swap some cash to the Red Bulls and sign Macoumba Kandji to complete our new dynamic front line. (not)

[Bluenose13]

Young,fast & a good pedigree also moving up from 13th to 2nd in the allocation order seems like good business.

Thanks for the appetizer Mo, Now bring on the main course :D

[Ossington Mental Youth]

Ill give him a chance, itll be interesting and fun to see if he plays on sunday

[Northern Soul]

Another J.Smith! What will the back of the jersey say? Breakout the single name nicknames.

Another Smith? I don't think so. Did Smith spend time with a Premiership club's academy?

[OneLoveOneEric]

I too will give him a chance, but let's just say the leash will be short :)

[VPjr]

This guy, from what I've read about him, is well regarded because of his outstanding pace and his size.

I'm curious to know why a 21 year old is coming home already. Homesick?

[Shaughno]

This guy, from what I've read about him, is well regarded because of his outstanding pace and his size.

I'm curious to know why a 21 year old is coming home already. Homesick?

Good to hear, hopefully he can do well for us.

[Stouffville_RPB]

I think he can score some goals for this team. He scored 4 goals 5 games at the U20 World Cup. If he's as fast as Carver says he could create alot of problems and run down alot of balls that would get away from some players because of the turf.

Let's not be too quick to judge. Just because he's not a big name doesn't mean he can't help us.

[DigzTFC!]

Good piece of the puzzle. Very pleased with this new direction towards younger players. Speed kills and even more so in this league. No doubt he will get about 100K. I like this move but he will have to acquire a primary striker. This is the beginning of the end for Jarrod Smith I think.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hz4GJYZUxBA

Looks like he was used as a winger a lot....which would help explain the goal ratio. Plus it a good career move because he was really playing in league two for last couple of seasons

[Marco2K]

GOOD SIGNING??

Dear god on wiki it shows he has never scored a damn goal.

SLICE MY WRISTS>

[invictusTFC]

Another Smith? I don't think so. Did Smith spend time with a Premiership club's academy?

No he was a graduate of a much more prestigious institution "Hawkes Bay United" lol

[Shaughno]

GOOD SIGNING??

Dear god on wiki it shows he has never scored a damn goal.

SLICE MY WRISTS>

He's 21, fast and apparently comes with high regard. I'll wait to reserve judgement but I'd much rather have younger players who have something to prove, then Cunninghams.

[UltraSuperMegaMo]

He can’t be all bad - he is running over a guy in the picture they’ve got on the TFC website. Turning into an interesting day from a TFC perspective.

[Ehsan]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hz4GJYZUxBA

he's got pace, he's got skill, he's young... I'm liking this signing, the main question is how much is he getting paid? (or how much goes toward salary cap??) and this better not be the DP

[BuSaPuNk]

Yeah they just might be using him for his size and speed. If he is as fast as Carver says than that will make the other teams backend more worried about letting Smith get by them allowing a little more room for Dichio hopefully. Welcome to Toronto Johann.

[Shaughno]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hz4GJYZUxBA

he's got pace, he's got skill, he's young... I'm liking this signing, the main question is how much is he getting paid? (or how much goes toward salary cap??) and this better not be the DP

Hz4GJYZUxBA

[Azerban]

GOOD SIGNING??

Dear god on wiki it shows he has never scored a damn goal.

SLICE MY WRISTS>

Scouting off of wikipedia? Pfft. Come on now. The real question is how he performs in Football Manager.

[Ossington Mental Youth]

Pretty psyched about this signing the more i read about it.
Alot of promise, looking forward to seeing this guy play

[BuSaPuNk]

anyword if he can be ready for the game sunday??

[Shaughno]

Well if nothing else, he's damn fast, likes to challenge defenders and wins a lot of fouls.

[Marco2K]

sorry.

perhaps him and Barrett will make a good duo. THen Dichio can come in and save the day

[arbogast]

Pretty psyched about this signing the more i read about it.
Alot of promise, looking forward to seeing this guy play


I agree. the fact is need need to get younger and we've just brought in another striker in his early twenties and Smith has European experience. I think it was an astute move.

[sulfur]

Another J.Smith
Another Smith? I don't think so. Did Smith spend time with a Premiership club's academy?

Ja. SMITH -- Jarrod
Jo. SMITH -- Johann :)

[Lucky Strike]

Well if nothing else, he's damn fast, likes to challenge defenders and wins a lot of fouls.

And if he puts in 100% effort, that's all really we can ask. Of course, after a while if you don't score this board will tear you to shreds but still respect you in a way because you try hard - unlike someone who we shall call J. Cunningham...no, that's too obvious, say Jeff C.

[TFCREDNWHITE]

Sooo what about Tello?? are we gonna sign that guy or what?!?!

[Lucky Strike]

Ja. SMITH -- Jarrod
Jo. SMITH -- Johann :)

Yeah, how will they distinguish the two on a jersey? Last name and first inital are the same. Will they just put "Smith" and let the numbers do their thing? Does anyone know how another sports team with this predicament did it?

[Shaughno]

If we were to sign Tello I'd say we have a solid base of youngsters for the next few years.

[Ossington Mental Youth]

Sooo what about Tello?? are we gonna sign that guy or what?!?!
still got room and allocations so i would imagine that if he impresses, yes

[Shaughno]

Yeah, how will they distinguish the two on a jersey? Last name and first inital are the same. Will they just put "Smith" and let the numbers do their thing? Does anyone know how another sports team with this predicament did it?

Some teams will use first names, some will just use the last name.

At United the Neville brothers had P. and G. on their jerseys.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/8b/Philnev.JPG

[JonO]

Another Smith? I don't think so. Did Smith spend time with a Premiership club's academy?
I think you're missing the humour. Literally another J. Smith. Going to be fun for the equipment manager ;)

[TFC 420]

If we were to sign Tello I'd say we have a solid base of youngsters for the next few years.
And don't forget TFC has 9 draft picks this year.

[JonO]

Yeah, how will they distinguish the two on a jersey? Last name and first inital are the same. Will they just put "Smith" and let the numbers do their thing? Does anyone know how another sports team with this predicament did it?
I can't remember exactly, but I think I've seen it before... I think they put full names

[Shaughno]

^^ Oi, you've got my fucking jersey on!

I do not.

You do too you dirty bugger, it says Smith right on it.

Exactly that's my name!

Right then, it's mine as well. Ain't this a dilly of a pickle.

[kitchener-TFC]

Let's not be too quick to judge. Just because he's not a big name doesn't mean he can't help us.
This is important to remember, but when we were talking about guys like Gomes, and Sukur just a while ago, this is a pretty poor signing.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hz4GJYZUxBA


He's got some wheels.

[ACSertL]

^^ Oi, you've got my fucking jersey on!

I do not.

You do too you dirty bugger, it says Smith right on it.

Exactly that's my name!

Right then, it's mine as well. Ain't this a dilly of a pickle.

http://www.highlanders.co.nz/images/highlander_resam.jpg

There can be only ONE!!! :)

[DigzTFC!]

So this guy is a forward and winger based on his "highlights". I'm starting to wonder what's the long-term plan with Robert. I'm jumping the gun of course but we have another midfielder on trial and two smiths that can play wing.

[ACSertL]

Could you perhaps try Robert in the middle? No idea if he's ever done it or if it would be feasable...thoughts?

[Damien]

YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS

Johann Smith = http://dcunited.mlsnet.com/images/2005/07/12/qBQCxBVo.jpg

[invictusTFC]

This is important to remember, but when we were talking about guys like Gomes, and Sukur just a while ago, this is a pretty poor signing.



Unsubstantiated rumours... Thats all... The point is that I think we have gotten a little better and definitely younger.


wait a minute... he could actually be a younger version of Cunningham!!! Arg...

[Ossington Mental Youth]

Remember how Gomes said no and Sukur retired (and was 37)?
Lets be realistic here man.

[Shaughno]

This is important to remember, but when we were talking about guys like Gomes, and Sukur just a while ago, this is a pretty poor signing.



He's got some wheels.

How can you compare this signing though, to World Class past their prime stars?

Simple answer, you can't.

This is a move for the future, those guys are immediate fixes.

[Lucky Strike]

Some teams will use first names, some will just use the last name.

At United the Neville brothers had P. and G. on their jerseys.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/8b/Philnev.JPG

Well sure, but under that scheme, they're both J. Smith. Lol, that's probably the most generic sounding name because of "John Smith".

[Ehsan]

How can you compare this signing though, to World Class past their prime stars?

Simple answer, you can't.

This is a move for the future, those guys are immediate fixes.

coupled with a Tollo signing this would be great long term move for us and will very likely pay dividends in the short term as well.

any word on whether or not he is playing on Sunday? is he out in TO already??

[bangersandmash]

Let's just call them salt and pepper. (aw crap, that sounds racist... its not meant that way!)

[Ossington Mental Youth]

im sure that hes going to play striker and that jarrod smith is in danger as i think we will prob keep Robert another year or so unless he really goes down hill or we have an amazing offer for another winger, hes not that bad. Also hes no spring chicken anymore so its not bad to have back up incase of emergency or dude just up and decides he wants to leave adn retire

[Keegan]

I think he can score some goals for this team. He scored 4 goals 5 games at the U20 World Cup. If he's as fast as Carver says he could create alot of problems and run down alot of balls that would get away from some players because of the turf.

Let's not be too quick to judge. Just because he's not a big name doesn't mean he can't help us.


Dude he didn't even play in the u20 World Cup. Just cause he has U20 goals doesn't mean they were in the World Cup. If he scored 4 in 5 at the u20 World Cup he wouldn't be coming to TFC lol

[Ossington Mental Youth]

wonder if hes that blonde cat (prob not, i believe it was prob Tello)

[Billy the kid]

I wonder if Ruiz is out of the picture at this point. He's starting to look better and better, the closer we get to the end of the transfer window.

I agree that this could be a good signing for the future.

[Ossington Mental Youth]

fingers crossed he plays sunday, i actually have hope that we might be able to beat those bastards

[Ossington Mental Youth]

id put money, with this signing, that hes out of the picture now for sure, especially if we sign tello and or christanvel

[Damien]

At least this is a good sign that Mo is putting less stock in older burnt out players from Europe and/or Championship

[Shaughno]

^^ I think that's the biggest positive out of all this.

[Dub Narcotic]

http://www.the-wanderer.co.uk/boards/viewtopic.php?t=15245&highlight=&sid=df8f468da08efcbb9c03b90ed374b748

[Dub Narcotic]

http://www.the-wanderer.co.uk/bolton/article/179?sid=160e6e92b12acf04476541f95297d31f

[rocker]

http://www.the-wanderer.co.uk/boards/viewtopic.php?t=15245&highlight=&sid=df8f468da08efcbb9c03b90ed374b748

wow some bad comments about Smith in that thread...

"And Johann Smith is so many kinds of shite all rolled into one."
"all pace and no particular ball skills from what i'd seen"

[billyfly]

I think you're missing the humour. Literally another J. Smith. Going to be fun for the equipment manager ;)

Thank you. I was trying to be funny. I like Shaughno's version of locker room debate

[Ossington Mental Youth]

Dont forget, this is the Bolton Wanderers we are talking about here, not too worried what their opinion is

[Shaughno]

Dont forget, this is the Bolton Wanderers we are talking about here, not too worried what their opinion is


Exactly, they're all kinds of shite rolled into one anyway.

[Dub Narcotic]

http://www.the-wanderer.co.uk/boards/viewtopic.php?p=368995&highlight=&sid=0cf333db4f8acab8e944e8156376dd7e

http://www.the-wanderer.co.uk/boards/viewtopic.php?t=13290

http://www.the-wanderer.co.uk/bolton/article/691

http://www.the-wanderer.co.uk/boards/viewtopic.php?t=10280&highlight=&sid=8bbf7ac9da9ace6c9a99a3f6370342e6

[Stryker]

Thanks for the highlight clip Shaughno.
Having watched that, I for one am quite excited about this signing.

- Hes got footwork, something Ive NEVER seen on TFC
- Goes right at defenders
- Speed to burn
- Doesn't give up on the play (hussles all the way back defensively)
- Alot of enthusiasim
- Decent touch
- YOUTH YOUTH YOUTH.. he can only get better

Atta boy Mo, good on ya.

[gtaguy]

I just saw a youtube video of him and i like what this kid brings.. He definetely is going to cause problems for the midfield and the defence. very quick and seems to produce alot of fouls on his behalf.. great ball skills, can pass with accuracy and when on the recieving end of the long balls he has the SOFT TOUCH... important when your breaking out of the area...

see for yourself
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hz4GJYZUxBA


This kid is for real.... can't wait to see him in Action

[Shaughno]

http://www.the-wanderer.co.uk/boards/viewtopic.php?p=368995&highlight=&sid=0cf333db4f8acab8e944e8156376dd7e

http://www.the-wanderer.co.uk/boards/viewtopic.php?t=13290

http://www.the-wanderer.co.uk/bolton/article/691

http://www.the-wanderer.co.uk/boards/viewtopic.php?t=10280&highlight=&sid=8bbf7ac9da9ace6c9a99a3f6370342e6

First thing that caught my eye, from one of their members who is in direct contact with their youth system...



It's also notable that when he looked at his best, we were playing him through the middle as a lone striker, where his strength and pace could be best employed. Now he's back on the wing.

To be honest I've got real doubts about our coaching. Smith, Vaz Te and Leslie Thompson all have ability, but no end product. Our best prospect for my money is Kevin Wolze and he's hardly getting a game at reserve level.

[H Bomb]

^^ Nice find, I can't see the negative in it. He isn't a "Big" signing but who knows what's gonna happen. This is good news to my ears

[boban]

This guy, from what I've read about him, is well regarded because of his outstanding pace and his size.

I'm curious to know why a 21 year old is coming home already. Homesick?
Well he's been cut from 3 teams in the past 3 years.
Kid needs a job more than anything else.

[e_mcarthur89]

Dude he didn't even play in the u20 World Cup. Just cause he has U20 goals doesn't mean they were in the World Cup. If he scored 4 in 5 at the u20 World Cup he wouldn't be coming to TFC lol

He was injured so he couldn't play in the tourney. Seriously you are so biased towards Canadians it is ridiculous. This is Toronto FC not the CMNT, the team is gonna do what is best for the team. You are a borderline xenophobe

[giambac]

Who?

TFC sign Wanderer; Edu sold to SPL? (http://sportsnet.ca/soccer/2008/08/15/edu_transfer_rangers/)


Do you notice a trend

Signings by MO
Dichio
Samuel
carver
Robert
Ricketts Teliby
Johan smith

what leagues are they from???
Is soccer not played internationally?

Smith is the answer to our problems?

Today's transaction
1) TFC/MLSE gets $5 miilion for theeir pockets
2) They signed a young inexperienced player.


Where ois our DP? When are they going to spend some money on some real players????

[poppamidnight]

So are we going with 3 up front again sunday???

Chad___Danny/Ibbe_____Smith

Robert___Robbo____Ricketts

Jimmy__James___Velez___Attakora ?????

[giambac]

Ill give him a chance, itll be interesting and fun to see if he plays on sunday

There is no time to give chances. The deadline was today and Mo failed big time.......

[GabrielHurl]

Do you notice a trend

Signings by MO
Dichio
Samuel
carver
Robert
Ricketts Teliby
Johan smith

what leagues are they from???
Is soccer not played internationally?

Smith is the answer to our problems?

http://www.journerdism.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/07/broken-record.jpg


Today's transaction
1) TFC/MLSE gets $5 miilion for theeir pockets
2) They signed a young inexperienced player.


Where ois our DP? When are they going to spend some money on some real players????


TFC don't get $5million from the sale :rolleyes:

[giambac]

This guy, from what I've read about him, is well regarded because of his outstanding pace and his size.

I'm curious to know why a 21 year old is coming home already. Homesick?


No, he is coming home becasue he is a bust and no one wanted him in europe.

Don't kid your self- that's the only reason we got him.

[boban]

Unsubstantiated rumours... Thats all... The point is that I think we have gotten a little better and definitely younger.
How?
Edu moved out - ~22 yrs.
Smith moves in ~22 yrs.

[boban]

At least this is a good sign that Mo is putting less stock in older burnt out players from Europe and/or Championship
No he just puts more stock in burnt out younger players from Europe and/or Championship :p

[RPB_RED_NATION_RPB]

wow some bad comments about Smith in that thread...

"And Johann Smith is so many kinds of shite all rolled into one."
"all pace and no particular ball skills from what i'd seen"


atleaste carver was bang on comparing him to WYNNE!:D


but i hope he can match wynne's HEART!

[boban]

Exactly, they're all kinds of shite rolled into one anyway.
And we took one of their rolled up shits.
What does that say about us? :rolleyes:

[RPB_RED_NATION_RPB]

NOw who is this guy!????

SLIM FUCKING PICKENS!!! when you use a high allocation spot on ??? who is this guy?



ANYONE!?

[Ossington Mental Youth]

So are we going with 3 up front again sunday???

Chad___Danny/Ibbe_____Smith

Robert___Robbo____Ricketts

Jimmy__James___Velez___Attakora ?????

Nah, itll be a 4-4-2, that was just out of necessity.


http://www.journerdism.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/07/broken-record.jpg




TFC don't get $5million from the sale :rolleyes:

why ive blocked the dude.
My life is so much easier man

[Stryker]

I can't believe all the pissing in here. We signed a striker. A couple of hours ago it looked like we weren't getting ANYONE. The kids 22 years old and has just had some bad luck with injury but now he's ready to go. He could be the next Altidore for all we know.

[Ossington Mental Youth]

Dude is a highly rated u-20 american striker.
get over it, i hope to god he proves you nay sayers so very wrong.
So tired of this constant whining. I promise this is the last time i complain

[Draracle]

wow some bad comments about Smith in that thread...

"And Johann Smith is so many kinds of shite all rolled into one."
"all pace and no particular ball skills from what i'd seen"


atleaste carver was bang on comparing him to WYNNE!:D


but i hope he can match wynne's HEART!


Wynne has shown that speed goes a helluva long way in this league. He would fail in Europe, but here you can make up for a lot with speed. From the clips, Smith has the speed and more skill. If we get him, he could be as influential up front as Wynne is in the back. And I'm sure we have all noticed the lack of pace in our D with Wynne gone.

[RPB_RED_NATION_RPB]

I can't believe all the pissing in here. We signed a striker. A couple of hours ago it looked like we weren't getting ANYONE. The kids 22 years old and has just had some bad luck with injury but now he's ready to go. He could be the next Altidore for all we know.

true BRO....he's a red now!!!.....and we should welcome him with open arms like we did barrrett!......I dont know who he is....so i'll have to be patient and see!!!...Im happy about the age though!

[Pigfynn]

This is very true. You know with enough speed you end up only having to beat the keeper.

[RPB_RED_NATION_RPB]

5 games for the YANKS....4 goals!

[trane]

This is exactly the type of signing that I expected. You wanted a striker we got you a striker. Nothing against this kid, lets see what he can do. I will say this pace by itself does not a striker make.

[trane]

This is very true. You know with enough speed you end up only having to beat the keeper.


Those are Cunny tactics. You still need skill. Speed thrills, skill kills. Skill and speed now you got something. We will see. I hope it works out.

[denime]

Dude he didn't even play in the u20 World Cup. Just cause he has U20 goals doesn't mean they were in the World Cup. If he scored 4 in 5 at the u20 World Cup he wouldn't be coming to TFC lol

He got injured just before U20 in Canada and that was the only reason why he did not play.

[RPB_RED_NATION_RPB]

will he play sunday??

[Stryker]

will he play sunday??

Let's hope so, I'm dying to get a look at him. :thumbsup:

[Pigfynn]

Those are Cunny tactics. You still need skill. Speed thrills, skill kills. Skill and speed now you got something. We will see. I hope it works out.

No my friend, that was at one time Cunny's tactic. He isn't as fast as he once was. When he was at his fastest he was banging them in for fun.

I'm not saying this kid is the answer, (believe me) but if he REALLY is as fast as Wynne he will cause major problems.

[trane]

^ I do not disagree I just hope he has a touch of skill to go with that.

[S_D]

He sounds like he has a bit of promise. Remember Wynn last season? He couldn't cross a ball into the box if his life depended on it and now he is getting some decent crosses in. Looks like a decent pick up. Any word on how much allocation cash was sent to NE?

I find it a bit strange that the Revs would trade their allocation spot for allocation money since they don't even spend to the cap as it is. I wonder if they are considering a signing in the future.

[Ron Manager]

Let's see...he's young, big, fast and likes to run at players...sounds like Altidore to me. Welcome to T.O. Smith. Show us what you got.

[Kickit09]

what a disapointment.... thats all im going to say.

[giambac]

Dude is a highly rated u-20 american striker.
get over it, i hope to god he proves you nay sayers so very wrong.
So tired of this constant whining. I promise this is the last time i complain


WQhy wasn't he on the US olympic team if he is so promising???

An honest question. Maybe someone has an answer....

[gtaguy]

I can't believe all the pissing in here. We signed a striker. A couple of hours ago it looked like we weren't getting ANYONE. The kids 22 years old and has just had some bad luck with injury but now he's ready to go. He could be the next Altidore for all we know.


I couldn't agree more ..

Sometimes when a player doesn't work out in one club he makes a huge
impact in another..
Im glad aleast MO JO dealt us something.. Considering all the players he's looked at if he executed this trade its becuase he see something good in the lad...

[reggie]

sounds like a leaf board,give the guy a chance,
i wound not worry about the ja smith jo smith thing with all the players coming back and how well some of the young CNDS are playing you may not see him on the bench that much more.
did i miss something? who is TELLO

[Stryker]

Look at it this way people... before this signing who were our options off the bench?
Jarrod Smith and Ibby. Jarrod has no business playing as a striker. And while Ibby's potential is HUGE, Johann Smith is the better player at this point in time.
We've made positive progress on this signing for both the future and our current run at the playoffs.
Best of all we gave up nothing.
Good job Mo.

[ManUtd4ever]

It's great to see Mo stockpiling young talent and draft picks in what has become a refreshing change in philosophy recently. As for all the naysayers regarding Johann Smith, give the kid a fucking chance...did anyone on this board seriously think Barrett was capable of scoring a world class free kick goal before he arrived in T.O.? The beauty of youth is potential...

[reggie]

Who is TELLO?

[dantdot]

Who is TELLO?

http://www.redpatchboys.ca/forums/showthread.php?t=4698

[Ron Manager]

From ESPN back in 2006..this guys has been highly rated..seems like he was not in favour at Bolton or where he went on loan. Let's see what regular minutes can do for him...

Johann Smith (Bolton Wanderers, England)

http://soccernet-assets.espn.go.com/design05/mediaUS/20060807/Smith_205.jpg Action Images/WireImage
Johann Smith celebrates a preseason goal for Bolton against AZ Alkmaar.


Johann Smith's primary goal this season is to break into the first team for Bolton and score his first goal. If the 19-year old's dream comes true, he will have to remember to send a thank-you card to one of his old coaches.

When he was 15, Smith was a raw striker who could outrun anyone he played against -- in high school, he once ran the 100 meters in a blazing 10.5 seconds. But his club coach refused to let his team play long balls over the top to him, forcing Smith to develop into a more technical striker.
As his development continues, he is learning to diversify his game and learn to hurt opponents in other ways. But he hasn't forgotten about his meal ticket, and Smith's speed was on full display as he helped the United States U-20 team advance to the final match of the Milk Cup in Northern Ireland. His biggest asset, pace, allows Smith to stretch defenses and create space for his teammates to fill. The physical gifts are there -- if he continues to develop, he may figure into Bolton's plans well into the future.
With the departure of Mexican striker Jared Borgetti, who played with Smith on the reserves last season, seemingly imminent, Smith seems likely to see some first-team action this season.

[reggie]

http://www.redpatchboys.ca/forums/showthread.php?t=4698
Thx i missed that........

[Inswingingwingman]

We got 5 million bucks to compensate for the fact the RPB aren't buying enough beer...

LOL

[Hustle]

How can you compare this signing though, to World Class past their prime stars?

Simple answer, you can't.

This is a move for the future, those guys are immediate fixes.

I agree...Glad to see Mo isn't dealing for a quick fix just for headline appeal in a city thats desperate for the next big thing. Championship teams aren't built that way....(leafs).

He looks promising....I will take video evidence over some board post from a guy 5 pints to the wind anytime.

[tlear]

He looks pretty good.. now we need to sign a CB

I wonder what our lineup will look like on Sunday. I doubt this guy will jump right in, we have Dichio and Barret up front and Robert should be ready to go on the left wing. Unless Carver changes formation to something new again

Now at home..

4 - 3 - 3 with Barret Dichio Smith(new one) up front would be fun to see

[Parkdale]

former 'Bolton Wanderer' ?

Is Damiiano their coach?

[Smenge]

I would rather have a top young American player than the older league championship retreads that have started making their way to MLS: Huckerby or Smith as a long term player?....Dickov? Given the dominance of American athletes in virtually every sport it makes sense for MO to focus on these players when available.

[jloome]

Hmmm, I am skeptical. Good foot skills, good speed. Looks like a good prospect for a winger. But there's nothing in his promo video to suggest he knows how to create space around the box to open up scoring chances. Jury's well out on this one, I think.

[GhostPK]

So far from youtube, I like the fact that he can burn guys around the corner, he's not too fancy with his feet and he doesn't dive off small body touches unlike our last striker, not naming any names *cough*cunningham*cough*

The True test will be in game situation. Looking forward to it!

[Keegan]

Guys I am telling you he isn't that good. He couldn't even start in League 2 guys.

He is a poor man's Simeon Jackson. Who is a good player mind you.

[rocktml]

geez, wait up guys, lets wait up and see before we judge....

[ua-kozak_TFC]

Wow... He's young, has loads of pace, and is a striker. I'm gonna have to give my hats off to Mo yet again.

This love/hate relationship I have with Mo is taking years away from my life...

... i don;t know about you but i have never seen the guy play or heard of his name before... And i would bet that you have never seen him play as well...I would hold off before praising mo.... In my perspective thus far Mo brought more dissapointements than happiness. So i will wait to see him play before sommenting on the acquisition...

[Lucky Strike]

Hmmm, I am skeptical. Good foot skills, good speed. Looks like a good prospect for a winger. But there's nothing in his promo video to suggest he knows how to create space around the box to open up scoring chances. Jury's well out on this one, I think.

No no, no winger. That precisely what the problem was before he came to TFC. At least according to those who were familiar with him.

[sulfur]

Guys I am telling you he isn't that good. He couldn't even start in League 2 guys.
So... is there a single non-Canadian player that you do appreciate and like? At all?

Anyone? Do they even play on our team? Or are all of the non-Canadians not that good?

Seriously, if you contribute this to every discussion, then don't even bother contributing.

[mclaren]

aren't we all happy tonight, this was just the big signing we were waiting for. good to see the FO isn't taking us for granted.

[Hustle]

aren't we all happy tonight, this was just the big signing we were waiting for. good to see the FO isn't taking us for granted.

Maybe I am missing something...can someone post a link where mo/jo said something about a big signing coming this year? Everything I see says DP next year...

[wzhxvy]

I do not mind signing young talent especially if we did not give up much for this guy. Why we do not have a DP is what bothers me...

[TFCREDNWHITE]

http://www.goltv.ca/programming/extra_time/

If you watch the link, you will see that Mo specifically says NO DP this year, but he guarantees a DP for next year!!

[boban]

Maybe I am missing something...can someone post a link where mo/jo said something about a big signing coming this year? Everything I see says DP next year...
Towards the end of last year , off season and beginning of this year he did.
Only in the last few weeks has he backtracked.

[jloome]

No no, no winger. That precisely what the problem was before he came to TFC. At least according to those who were familiar with him.

So maybe he was moved out of his comfort zone because his skill set seems to match winger, but he's a good striker?

Could be. Four goals in 5 US u-20 qualifiers suggests he can hit the net sometimes. But 20 odd starts in lower leagues with just one goal? That says bad finisher to me.

He is, however, young. They're signing him to be the guy two or three seasons from now, I reckon, to develop as a strike partner for Ibee.

In fact, everything about our recent transfers says Mo is trying to build a Euro-style development-based franchise...which would make him more astute than any of us has really judged. The poison in that pudding, however, is that he's only just getting 'round to setting up overseas scouting now, which was naive to an extreme. You can't depend on agents to give you a straight line, for obvious reasons.

[Smenge]

If he is around long enough, perhaps MO can go after a DP in five years, a guy named Edu, I hear he is good.

[Beach_Red]

Towards the end of last year , off season and beginning of this year he did.
Only in the last few weeks has he backtracked.

Yes. Probably many, many players were approached.

[Derko]

geez, wait up guys, lets wait up and see before we judge....

I'm with you, I'll wait and see before I judge!! I guess for most of the posters, 'the glass is half empty'

:canada:

[mclaren]

Maybe I am missing something...can someone post a link where mo/jo said something about a big signing coming this year? Everything I see says DP next year...

that's the problem - he should be making a big signing this year.

[Beach_Red]

In fact, everything about our recent transfers says Mo is trying to build a Euro-style development-based franchise...which would make him more astute than any of us has really judged. The poison in that pudding, however, is that he's only just getting 'round to setting up overseas scouting now, which was naive to an extreme. You can't depend on agents to give you a straight line, for obvious reasons.

No you certainly wouldn't want to depend on agents, but with the little faith many people have in this league and with the very tentative approach MLSE took to the team, maybe it's a little, um, naive to think they'd set up much of a scouting program right away.

It looks like from about the time TFC started playing the league has moved up a notch and with the big franchise fees being paid now and the new sponsorship coming on board it's about to move up another notch.

But I understand MLSE's reluctance to invest too heavily too soon - Toronto can be a real "event" town and the novelty can wear off quickly. I don't think that will be the case with TFC - we've seen how supporters are different from fans (although plenty of people on this board do give up rather quickly) - but we are somewhat at the mercy of the league and its weird rules and salary cap and odd schedule and so on. A team in this league can only get so good right now.

But this will change.

[Cantstoptherock]

4 goals in 5 appearances for the US U-20 team isn't bad and a 10.5 second 100 metre sprint time is nothing to sneeze at. I saw quite a few runners do worse than that yesterday at the Bird's Nest in Beijing.

I'll give him some time before judging.

[Lucky Strike]

Could be. Four goals in 5 US u-20 qualifiers suggests he can hit the net sometimes. But 20 odd starts in lower leagues with just one goal? That says bad finisher to me.

Just for the record, he only had 11 starts, 8 sub appearances in his time in Europe. It's not a huge difference, but hey...

http://www.soccerbase.com/players_details.sd?playerid=44377

[Ossington Mental Youth]

Id be willing to bet that Mo and co has some idea as to which agents are talking shit and which arent

[ag futbol]

Id be willing to bet that Mo and co has some idea as to which agents are talking shit and which arent
Well Barry Mclean is still heavily connected to the club, and he was responsible for a fair amount of garbage we acquired last year.

Agent is going to hand you a menu, it's up to you what to order. Once they realize what you like, they are going to pump you full of it regardless of whether it's effective on the field. They simply want to generate transactions to make money.

I don't think it's black and white. It's still going to be up to the manager to sift through what he's offered to determine if it's good enough.

[The Oz]

Some of you guys really make me sick. All I ever hear in Toronto for anything to do with sports when a new guy comes is negativity even before they play a game.

Leafs --> Toskala turned out to be awesome
Jays --> Accardo turned out to be a great replacement closer

Seriously just stop saying BLAH BLAH THEY DIDN'T WANT HIM SO HE MUST BE ABSOLUTE SHITE! Watch a guy play, then make your descion, otherwise your just a great big douchebag.

[ua-kozak_TFC]

Maybe I am missing something...can someone post a link where mo/jo said something about a big signing coming this year? Everything I see says DP next year...
buddy do you live in a bubble or something.... all mo has been saying before the transfer window opened was to bring a solid stricker that can score goals that would give us a push for the play offs...I don't think i 3 goals or whatever this smith guy has is going to bring us into play offs....

[RedLion]

That's one of those YouTube videos that you can't help thinking, "This is the highlight reel??!"

That said, can play with both feet, likes to take on defenders, (unlike anyone else on our team), has pace and it looks like he has some heart.

Willing to give him the benefit of the doubt at this point. Welcome to Toronto FC!

30 minutes to go, Mo. Where is the REAL signing? I feel like I've just been given the wee Christmas present that you get to open first, before the big present!

[jloome]

Just for the record, he only had 11 starts, 8 sub appearances in his time in Europe. It's not a huge difference, but hey...

http://www.soccerbase.com/players_details.sd?playerid=44377

okay, 19 appearances. Sorry, one off:rolleyes:

Still, one goal at that level? He's not likely to light it up here.

[DigzTFC!]

Dear Roogsy, I'm hammered again as it was my friends bday. As you so enjoy my drunken state, I thought I'd chime in on this conversation. Here's the best news of the day:

Striker: Dichio (33yrs;150k), Barrett (23 yrs; 60k), Johann Smith (21 yrs; 100k?) Ibbe (17 yrs; GA)....

Anyone notice the progression of years here. We have 3 first round draft picks (Marcus Tracy and O'Brian White in the draft) and an unused DP. We could have the most affordable talented deep strike force in the league for years to come. That lineup is impressive for an MLS team an no one can deny it period punto capeesh.

For fuck sakes we traded allocation away for him....which equates to nothing because we just sold Edu without really losing anything. If he sucks, we just need him to keep being called to a US squad and sell his ass at profit. Good move for us, but not a solution. SO WHAT! Piece of the puzzle.

Roogsy, that took me 45 minutes to right

[Ossington Mental Youth]

Dear Roogsy, I'm hammered again as it was my friends bday. As you so enjoy my drunken state, I thought I'd chime in on this conversation. Here's the best news of the day:

Striker: Dichio (33yrs;150k), Barrett (23 yrs; 60k), Johann Smith (21 yrs; 100k?) Ibbe (17 yrs; GA)....

Anyone notice the progression of years here. We have 3 first round draft picks (Marcus Tracy and O'Brian White in the draft) and an unused DP. We could have the most affordable talented deep strike force in the league for years to come. That lineup is impressive for an MLS team an no one can deny it period punto capeesh.

For fuck sakes we traded allocation away for him....which equates to nothing because we just sold Edu without really losing anything. If he sucks, we just need him to keep being called to a US squad and sell his ass at profit. Good move for us, but not a solution. SO WHAT! Piece of the puzzle.

Roogsy, that took me 45 minutes to right

Write
Im a bastard
Regardless, You sir, are correct.
My god i hope our boy kills that shit and proves them haters WRONG

[Ossington Mental Youth]

seriously im hammered and out of line for the correction.
SHOW EM HOW ITS DONE SMITHY

[Ossington Mental Youth]

PS
that first post was meant to be a PM

[Fiin]

okay, 19 appearances. Sorry, one off:rolleyes:

Still, one goal at that level? He's not likely to light it up here.

RR has scored as many or more goals in half a season here as he did in his entire career in England... I would say hes almost lighting it up here..

Doesnt mean shit he has 1 goal in 11/8 over there imo, 2 different leagues.. give this kid a chance people.

[I_AM_CANADIAN]

Some of you guys really make me sick. All I ever hear in Toronto for anything to do with sports when a new guy comes is negativity even before they play a game.

Leafs --> Toskala turned out to be awesome
Jays --> Accardo turned out to be a great replacement closer

Seriously just stop saying BLAH BLAH THEY DIDN'T WANT HIM SO HE MUST BE ABSOLUTE SHITE! Watch a guy play, then make your descion, otherwise your just a great big douchebag.
Toskala was already regarded as a very good goalie, it was just a matter of whether he was good enough to be the lone starter, and he proved he could. This guy couldn't cut it at Bolton Wanderers, and obviously didn't impress on loan, hence why everyone's so skeptical.

[canucker]

I'm a Bolton fan and I've never even heard of this guy. He never even got a sniff at playing with the regular squad and never managed to impress with the reserves.

Either way, I wouldn't write him off before we've seen him play, he can't be worse than what we've had and got. At least Mo is bringing in more depth, these type of acquisitions are low risk and aren't a big gamble.

[canucker]

Dont forget, this is the Bolton Wanderers we are talking about here, not too worried what their opinion is

Exactly, they're all kinds of shite rolled into one anyway.

Piss off, if we were that shitty we wouldn't have been playing in Europe last season. Hardly the mark of a shitty club. Off year last year due to a coaching change, we'll be better this season.

[DigzTFC!]

Carver called him a "primarily a left sided player" so I don't think he was brought in to be the starting forward but to compete with Robert on the wing. Having speed down the wing in our system will work. However, we need to find a striker that can head those crosses home. Unfortunately, the only player within MLS I know who is available is Ruiz.

[Ossington Mental Youth]

HAHAHA
nothing personal, just getting defensive about our new man.
PS hell of win today (granted the games not over), dunno if yer boys will necessarily continue in that manner tho (once again nothing personal, league just looks dangerous this year)

[Ossington Mental Youth]

Carver called him a "primarily a left sided player" so I don't think he was brought in to be the starting forward but to compete with Robert on the wing. Having speed down the wing in our system will work. However, we need to find a striker that can head those crosses home. Unfortunately, the only player within MLS I know who is available is Ruiz.

He also said he plays great in the center, i wouldnt write him off as a striker, he may have just said that to show dudes versatility. Id be willing to bet that he will play primarily as a striker (seems to be the place that he excells in the majority of previous situations).

[DigzTFC!]

Did I piss you off last night? I didn't really understand you reply Drinky McDrinkington. Anyways, I think he's a more skillful, faster and younger version of Jarrod Smith. The analogy is the versatility of the two players alone. I think in the long run this signing is the beginning of the end for Jarrod.

[Ossington Mental Youth]

HAHAHA
nah sorry, didnt mean to come across as rude, i totally agree with you on the end of Jarrod, i suspect we will see him up for grabs in the expansion draft (is it certain there is going to be one? hows that going to work with them signing quite a few players at this time? are they still going to grab 1 player per team?). I think Jarrod could be an ok player but his finishing just lacks soo much, i do feel bad for the guy cuz he does work but alas we are in need of higher calibre players.

Once again i apologize for coming across as a dick, just a bit of pisstaking on my part.
I am a dignified drunk ill have you know, HA

[canucker]

HAHAHA
nothing personal, just getting defensive about our new man.
PS hell of win today (granted the games not over), dunno if yer boys will necessarily continue in that manner tho (once again nothing personal, league just looks dangerous this year)

no worries, yeah we likely won't continue on like that, it was only stoke afterall. nobody is expecting anything other than around a middle of the table finish. first full season with the new manager, its going to take time to get back to where we were.

[nascarguy]

I have no idea who this player is and if he is good

[Zeke_Jones]

no matter how bad people say he is or might be nobody can be worse than lombardo