Toronto FC announced Friday the signing of free agent forward Johann Smith. Toronto acquired the former Bolton Wanderers striker after acquiring the No. 2 allocation ranking from the New England Revolution in exchange for allocation money and Toronto's 13th allocation ranking. This swap in allocation allowed Toronto FC to sign Smith.
"We were lucky to beat out four other teams to get his signature," said manager, director of soccer Mo Johnston. "He's got the pace of Marvell Wynne, and can get by players. We're very thrilled to have him, he adds youth and we're looking forward to working with him."
Smith, 21, joins Toronto FC after spending the bulk of his time with Bolton Wanderers Academy in England. He made his team debut in the Premiership in Bolton's Carling Cup defeat at Charlton Athletic in October of 2006 when he came on as a second half substitute. Smith then joined Carlisle United on loan in January of 2007, and made his debut there against Doncaster Rovers. He scored his first professional goal on April 29, 2007 against Swansea City.
Internationally, Smith is currently listed in the U.S. U-23 player pool. He was named to the FIFA U-20 World Cup squad that competed in Toronto in the summer of 2007 but a pre-tournament injury forced him to withdraw from competition. In five appearances for the U-20's he has scored four goals. Smith was loaned out to League Two side Darlington in mid-October and followed that up with a loan spell at Stockport County.
Johann Smith #28
Position: Forward
Height: 5-10
Weight: 165
Birthdate: April 25, 1987
Nationality: American
Last Club: Bolton Wanderers (England)
Roster Designation: International
