TFC signs Laryea to new contract
Richie has become a little richer.
Toronto FC announced on Wednesday that the club has signed Canadian international defender Richie Laryea to a new contract. As per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.
“Richie has been terrific since he joined us. He played a valuable role, both for TFC and the Canadian men’s national team last year,” said TFC GM Ali Curtis. “Off the field, Richie’s character and personality is tremendous. He earned this new contract in many ways, and we’re excited for him, his family, and what he will bring to TFC moving forward.”
Laryea has made two appearances with one goal this season for Toronto FC. He originally signed with the club on March 21, 2019 following a successful pre-season trial.
A midfielder prior to joining TFC, Laryea moved into a right fullback position and made 28 appearances (combined) with two goals and two assists last season.
Originally selected by Orlando City SC in the first round (seventh overall) of the 2016 MLS Superdraft out of the University of Akron, Laryea played for Orlando City SC and Orlando City B from 2016-18.
Laryea earned his first call-up to the Canadian national team and his first cap on Sept. 7, 2019 in a 6-0 victory over Cuba in a CONCACAF Nations League match. He has earned four caps in total for Canada.
Though terms of the deal weren’t disclosed, it’s expected Laryea will get a considerable raise from the paltry $56,260 he’s pulling down this year (according to the MLS Players Association website).
In an interview with Postmedia earlier this year, Laryea insisted he wasn’t worried about getting a new deal, believing that if he continues to improve, the money will look after itself.
“I leave that for my agent to deal with. I’m here to do a job and it’s been a good year,” he said. “Right now, the last thing on my mind is about a new contract. My focus is on playing as much as I can and helping the team win trophies.”