John Herdman's Statements Ahead of Toronto FC's Return to MLS

After a positive break for Toronto FC following their elimination from the Leagues Cup, the team had about two weeks to recover physically and prepare to rejoin the MLS in good shape.

This break comes just in time for the most crucial part of the season for Toronto FC. Unlike earlier in the season, they are now in the hunt for a playoff spot and are considered one of the top contenders in the Eastern Conference, aiming to compete at the highest level to win the championship.

John Herdman also touched on the potential absences for the upcoming match, as well as the challenging period ahead for Toronto FC.

READ MORE: MLS Returns | Toronto FC Faces a Tough Match Against Houston Dynamo

John Herdman Trusts His Team for the Final Stretch of the Season

Toronto FC is entering a hectic final stretch of the season. The team is facing some extremely tough matches, not only in the MLS but also in the Canadian Championship, where they are vying for a place in the final.

TFC will face Forge FC in the second leg on August 27. They met in the first leg in Hamilton, where Toronto FC suffered a 2-1 defeat. Despite the setback, there is hope and determination within the team to turn the tie around and secure a spot in the Canadian Championship final.

"We’ve got three matches, one in Houston, which is extreme conditions, then we have a two-day turnaround to a big home cup match, a semi-final which everyone’s excited for, and then a quick turnaround to a home game against DC"

- John Herdman

Herdman also addressed the challenging schedule ahead, noting that the team will have to manage rotations and balance players' minutes carefully to avoid fatigue that could lead to injuries and absences in this critical phase of the season. The goal is to compete at the highest level while upholding the club's reputation.

"We’re looking at rotation, trying to balance minutes, but at the same time, you’ve got to look at one game at a time to win football matches… This is what we’re wired for, this is what we want now: to be competing right there under pressure, and, you know, ready to perform."

- John Herdman

John Herdman has already shown a completely different side of the team compared to last season. All eyes are now on the match against Houston Dynamo to see how Herdman sets up his team. On August 24, Toronto FC will be back in action, and fans will be eager to see how they perform.