Toronto FC's youth movement produces mixed results so far
It’s one thing play the kids early on. But it’s quite another to remain faithful to them should TFC find themselves in a hole as the season progresses.
It’s still very early on in the 2022 MLS season, but Toronto FC coach Bob Bradley has already distinguished himself by showing great faith in the team’s youngsters.
The exits of Auro Jr., Richie Laryea, Justin Morrow and the soon-to-be-gone Kemar Lawrence have left the club with limited options at both fullback positions. Rather than bringing in experienced players, either via a trade within MLS or making a move in the transfer market, Bradley opted to convert wingers Jacob Shaffelburg (22) and Jahkeele Marshall-Rutty (17) into fullbacks to fill the positional void.
The club also signed youth academy graduate Luca Petrasso (21) to a homegrown player contract after he spent the past few seasons with TFC 2. In addition, 19-year-old forward Deandre Kerr made his pro debut in the season opening 1-1 draw away to FC Dallas, while Kadin Chung (23) earned his first MLS minutes as a second half substitute in Saturday’s 4-1 loss to the New York Red Bulls at BMO Field.
