Yet another disappointing season for Toronto FC has completely dulled the optimism of loyal Toronto soccer fans and bettors. That makes this offseason an important one as those who follow the team are getting antsy. They want to see some winning, which has never happened on a consistent basis for FC.
So here we are again, heading into an offseason in which management will once again attempt to build a contender. The task won’t become any easier with New York City FC looking to make an immediate impact and a number of key players on the move. Here is a quick look at what Toronto FC will need to do this offseason to turn things around.
Defoe’s Future
All eyes will be on Toronto FC striker Jermain Defoe and how soon he could make a return to England for the chance to play for one of the Premier League teams. There are a number that have been rumored to be interested in his services. Speculation of Defoe’s departure was rampant down the stretch but as of this writing, he still belongs to Toronto. QPR manager Harry Redknapp admitted they have not reached out to acquire Defoe despite the persistent headlines suggesting to the contrary. With the January transfer window opening shortly and a number of teams in need of skill up front, it wouldn’t be a shock if he moves soon. Defoe was a tremendous presence up front when he was healthy and Toronto will have to do something to – at least – try and bridge the talent loss once he leaves this offseason.
Potential Changes
Hometown striker Dwayne De Rosario certainly isn’t in their plans after the team cut ties with him by declining the option to bring him back next season. TFC also declined to bring back fellow striker Andrew Wiedeman, as well as midfielder Jeremy Hall and defender Ryan Richter. Doneil Henry’s exit combined with Bradley Orr moving to Blackburn has left holes in the back end and there is no shortage of issues left for general manager Tim Bezbatchenko to address. Toronto did bring back Jordan Hamilton from overseas and will look to slot him up front, but that alone doesn’t take away from the change that is bound to take place. Whether or not Toronto FC is going to take another stab at a key international player is unlikely at this point as it will make that much more sense for them to try and build through trades and the upcoming drafts. Despite the persistent rumors, the team has made it clear that midfielder Kyle Bekker will remain with the team for next season and that he is not being actively shopped. Of course, Bekker is a valuable trade asset and it wouldn’t be a major shocker if they ended up moving him after all. Bekker wants to remain in Toronto but with the trade window opening this past week it’s on Bezbetechko to explore all options in order to make sure he builds the most complete roster possible. According to sources, at least six teams have shown interest in acquiring Bekker and with so many different offers potentially on the table anything could happen.
Outlook
Toronto FC will be adding to its roster in the MLS SuperDraft in January but don’t be overly surprised if there was a major shakeup before that. Defoe’s seemingly imminent exit will force Bezbetchenko’s hand and with so many areas to address. He could be limited to the draft and trades, but don’t be surprised if he comes up with another avenue to try and really bolster the roster another way. Toronto FC fans have been teased for years now and they are desperately hungry for a winner. However, with only so many options available to the team, it looks like they might be forced to deal with another losing season…unless management is somehow to address some of these issues.
