BRADLEY NAMED TFC CAPTAIN
After a flurry of off-season deals, fiery midfielder will lead Reds into new MLS season,
Along with a pair of new stars, Toronto FC will also have a new captain this season.
The team acknowledged Tuesday that midfielder Michael Bradley will be taking over the captain’s armband this upcoming season, replacing veteran central defender Steven Caldwell.
“I’m extremely proud and excited,” said Bradley, who paid tribute to his predecessor.
“I think it’s important to talk about Ste- ven Caldwell and the respect and admiration I have for him. From the first day I got here he’s somebody that’s played a huge role for me, both on and off the field. I’ve learned pretty quickly that being captain of a team in this city bears some extra responsibility and extra pressure.
“I’m excited by that and I’m looking forward to representing this team and the city in the best possible way.”
The move comes after an off-season of dramatic change for TFC, including the signing of former Juventus midfielder Sebastian Giovinco, and the trade that sent disgruntled striker Jermain Defoe to Sunderland AFC of the English Premier League in exchange for U.S. national team striker Jozy Altidore.
Bradley took on an unofficial leadership role with the Reds last season and was one of the team’s most vocal players in the locker room.
Bradley also wasn’t shy about speaking his mind when journalists were around. In one case, he lambasted MLS officiating as “a joke” after a controversial penalty call cost TFC a potential victory against the Chicago Fire.
On another occasion, Bradley spoke up about the use of artificial turf in this sum- mer’s Women’s World Cup, saying the sport should be played on grass.
Before touching down in Toronto as part of last off-season’s “Bloody Big Deal” makeover, Bradley spent two seasons with Roma of Italy’s Serie A.
The 27-year-old New Jersey native has also scored 13 goals in 93 games with the U.S. national team, including a 2-0 victory over Panama this past weekend where Bradley scored directly off a corner kick.
Also Tuesday, Toronto FC announced that all 34 of its games this season will be televised, with 23 on TSN and the other 11 split between Sportsnet and Sportsnet 360.
The Reds open their season on the road March 7 against the Vancouver Whitecaps.
“I’ve learned pretty quickly that being captain of a team in this city bears some extra responsibility and extra pressure.” MICHAEL BRADLEY