Toronto FC Player Roster
In accordance with MLS policies, Toronto FC is restricted to an 18 man senior roster and a 10 man developmental roster. Like its American counterparts, the squad consists of both domestic and foreign players (though these domestic players are Canadian rather than American). The club is allowed the MLS-standard four senior foreign players (including Americans) as well as five younger foreign players. They are also allowed three additional foreign senior players who must be American. Thus the team is required to field fewer domestic players than its American counterparts.[1]
Despite coach Johnston's claims he would "put all Canadians on the field" if he could,[2] one club official stated that of the 18 man squad between 7 and 11 players will be Canadian. [3] Canadian international Jim Brennan became the first player in club history on September 8, 2006.[4] In addition, there are plans to develop a team-run youth academy where the team can develop local players and promote them to the senior team as is common in other countries.[5] The team participated in the 2006 MLS Expansion Draft on November 17, 2006. The first player to be traded in team history was Canadian MF Adrian Serioux to FC Dallas for Irishman Ronnie O'Brien.[6] Mo Johnston kept with the theme by also dealing Jason Kreis back to Real Salt Lake for an allocation and Will Hesmer and Danny O'Rourke to the Columbus Crew for another allocation.[7] On Friday, January 12, 2007, Toronto used its first ever draft pick to select Maryland midfielder Maurice Edu No.1 overall at the 2007 MLS Super Draft, in Indianapolis.
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