2007 Preview - Toronto FC

2006 record: N/A ('07 is first year in league)

Key additions: Edson Buddle (Red Bull New York), Ronnie O'Brien (FC Dallas), Conor Casey (FSV Mainz), Alecko Eskandarian (D.C. United), Andy Welsh (Sunderland)

Key losses: - none -


For an expansion team, Toronto FC looks very strong on paper. Head coach Mo Johnston has assembled some talented young players to build the first Canadian-based MLS team around. Their home turf, BMO Field, will become the sixth soccer-specific-stadium in the league. Already, interest is high in the club - all 14,000 season seats made available have been sold out for weeks now, making them the most successful club in MLS history on that front.

With an offensive core of Edson Buddle, Ronnie O'Brien, Conor Casey and Alecko Eskandarian, Toronto FC appears to be an offensive-minded team at the outset. Add to that mix Abbe Ibrahim and draft pick Maurice Edu (when he returns from a cracked pelvis), and TFC could be hanging three or four goals on their opposition in any game.

TFC's defense looks less certain, with USL standout Greg Sutton being called upon for 'keeping duties. The mostly Canadian back line has little MLS experience, and could be a weak spot this season.

Still, I see the lads from up north finishing the season strong and securing a playoff position in their first year. They will trail D.C. and New York but will still make a decent showing.
TJ's project finish: 3rd in the Eastern Conference, 7th overall.