TFC's Richie Laryea riding high for Canada ahead of Concacaf series

Like he was under John Herdman, Toronto FC fullback Richie Laryea has been a mainstay with the Canadian national team since Jesse Marsch's appointment in May.

Of the 11 games that Canada has played under the American coach, Laryea, a 29-year-old from Toronto, has appeared in all but one while also earning seven starts. He has underlined his importance to Marsch with his dangerous and probing runs in the final third, driving the team's attack forward at crucial times, including both games against Argentina at this summer's Copa América.

“Overall, with Richie’s mentality and his work ethic, his commitment to games and his courage, he's such a valuable guy to have on your team,” Marsch told reporters last week when he announced his latest roster.

Laryea is expected to be at the forefront again when Canada takes on Suriname in a two-legged affair, starting with Friday's road game and next Tuesday's return match at BMO Field. The winner qualifies for the Concacaf Nations League finals next March in Los Angeles and for next summer's Concacaf Gold Cup.