MLS rules explained: What is the Homegrown International Rule?
We break down MLS's Homegrown International Rule and how it applies to former Toronto FC prospect Jacen Russel-Rowe.
In a continuing series at TFC Republic, we'll look at some of Major League Soccer's more arcane roster rules and break them down by using real-life examples so that they are easily understandable.
In this week's edition: We explain why former TFC youth academy product Jacen Russel-Rowe, a 20-year-old Toronto native, is considered a domestic player for Columbus Crew because of the league's Homegrown International Rule.
Last month, former TFC youth academy product Jacen Russell-Rowe was named to John Herdman's 53-man preliminary roster for this month's Concacaf Nations League final. Russell-Rowe, a 20-year-old native of Toronto, didn't make the final roster, but it's clear that Herdman is keeping close tabs on the youngster and that he could be involved with the men's team sometime in the future.
Before we break down MLS's Homegrown International Rule, let's look at this talented Canadian prospect.
