MLS: TFC declines options on Irwin, Ricketts as roster revamp gets underway
Toronto FC has started work on reshaping its roster in the wake of a dismal MLS season.
The former champions, who went from first to 19th in the standings, declined options on goalkeeper Clint Irwin and forward Tosaint Ricketts. Defender Jason Hernandez and forward Jordan Hamilton will both be out of contract at the end of the year.
Toronto could still bring all four back — as it could with Brazilian wingback Auro and Argentine forward Lucas Janson, whose loan deals expire Dec. 31.
GM Tim Bezbatchenko, who was in transit Tuesday, seemed to send a mixed signal in the statement outlining the player moves.
“We will continue to have discussions with the players on loan and whose options were not exercised and those out of contract,” Bezbatchenko said. “We want to also acknowledge Clint, Tosaint and Jason for their contributions to the club both on and off the field. They have played an instrumental part in building our club into one that competes for championships.”
Still talking, but thanks for being here.
Toronto did exercise contract options on goalkeeper Caleb Patterson-Sewell; defenders Ashtone Morgan, Drew Moor, Nick Hagglund, Julian Dunn and midfielders Jay Chapman, Ryan Telfer and Aidan Daniels.
Fourteen others were already under contract for 2019. With 22 players on its roster, Toronto is likely looking for a half-dozen more.
In the aftermath of missing out on the playoffs, TFC executives called the MLS season unacceptable but rejected talk of a clearout.
Team president Bill Manning said the shopping list includes a commanding centre back and “another attacking option.’’ Coach Greg Vanney expressed an interest in attacking wingers.
“This team isn’t done and this roster isn’t done,’’ said Bezbatchenko. ,
The future of TFC’s designated players — Jozy Altidore, Michael Bradley and Sebastian Giovinco — remains up in the air with 2019 the last year on their contracts. The three made more than US$18.5 million between them this season.
Irwin, who made $221,000 last year, and Ricketts ($203,175), would likely have to take significant paycuts to stay.
The 29-year-old Irwin, a former starter, has played just 13 league games over the last two seasons with Alex Bono taking over as the club’s No. 1.
The 31-year-old Ricketts, a Canadian international with 59 caps, had a slow start to the season due to a thryoid abnormality. He played in 18 league games but started just four and had three goals in his 601 minutes.
Toronto has also agreed to terminate the contract of midfielder Ager Aketxe “by mutual consent.” The 24-year-old Spaniard, had one assist in 14 combined appearances in MLS and CONCACAF Champions League action.