TORONTO – As we turn the page to 2011, Toronto FC have a lot of work to do. But the seeds have already been planted for what the clubs hopes will end up being a successful campaign and, ultimately, that long-awaited first postseason berth. Here is TFC's to-do list for the winter.
Hire the right director of soccer and coach
This is the most important decision for the franchise, so it's no surprise parent company Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment hired one of the greats of world soccer, Jürgen Klismann, to help find the right man. Based on his assessment and the identification of a playing style, he and MLSE will revew the over 50 applications received from around the world for the director of soccer position and recommend a candidate, who'll have free reign to fill his staff. Another mistake could result in a greater backlash from the increasingly frustrated fan base.
Production from the DP position
New York have Thierry Henry and Rafael Márquez, while Toronto have Julian de Guzman and Mista. Zero goals combined from TFC's two Designated Players just doesn't cut it given the expectations and resources. Toronto must make decisions on their two DPs, define a strategy for their DP allotment and be prudent in targeting and pursuing the right players.
Need for speed
Interim coach Nick Dasovic lamented the dearth of speedy wingers and thus a lack of balance on the squad. Management has already made strides to address this by identifying a list of players to pursue this offseason, but the late play of homegrown youngster Nicholas Lindsay could mean a solution is already on the roster.
[inlinenode:315308]Finishing up front
Despite scoring seven goals, Chad Barrett battled injuries and poor finishing, missed many chances all season. A full season with Maicon Santos will help the offense, but TFC need another bona fide striker with a penchant for goal poaching to take the scoring pressure off Dwayne De Rosario.
Keep De Ro Happy
Frustration boiled over for TFC's leading scorer with his controversial check-signing goal celebration after scoring against San Jose on Sept. 25. The gesture sparked a storm of criticsim from fans, media and team ownership. Not having missed the playoffs his entire career, De Ro has missed it both seasons playing in his hometown and will be looking for an upgrade around him or else a trade request may not be out of the question.
More creativity in the midfield
The middle was an Achilles heel for the club all season. Midfield service to the strikers is key to a clicking offense, but was non-existent under Preki's defensive scheme. De Guzman, Nick LaBrocca, Jacob Peterson and Martin Saric were either inconsistent, injured or not good enough often forcing De Rosario to force the issue. The new brain trust will have to infuse the middle with creativity, ball handling, vision and speed.
Strong central defense presence
Nana Attakora and Adrian Cann formed a solid one-two punch in central defense, but a strong imposing veteran center back would better organize the back line and reduce the defensive miscues that plagued the team in the final third of the season.
[inlinenode:321260]Continuity in the lineup
Toronto did not field the same starting lineup in two consecutive games this season. Injuries, poor individual performances, a heavy game schedule, suspensions and international duty all led to different starting XIs that resulted in inconsistency and a lack of offense throughout the season. Better, more disciplined players will improve consistency.
Roster depth
Toronto's lack of depth was apparent with minimal production from the midfield and the dearth of scoring. More talent will be necessary, especially next year, as more calls for international duty and a heavy game schedule will put a burden on the team again in 2011.
Improve scouting, especially in the Americas
The club's constant revolving door of players reflects many things including a lack of effective international scouting. TFC must shore up their scouting activities, while focusing more on talent available in the the Americas. Players from Latin and South America, including Fredy Montero, Alvaro Saborio and Andy Najar, have all had a strong impact on their respective teams since entering the league.
