Friday, December 12, 2008

DeRo goes home

Dwayne De Rosario is headed back home. Canadian international Dwayne De Rosario was dealt from Houston to Toronto FC in exchange for Julius James and allocation money. In one fell swoop, two teams' fortunes have changed.

For Toronto, this is the best move they possibly could have made this offseason. De Rosario is a legitimate talent, a proven MLS superstar who has won championships in this league before. That he's Canadian makes this move a natural fit and one many speculated on since Toronto joined the league. De Rosario has been the backbone of Houston and San Jose before that for years and will do the same with Toronto. With Amado Guevara to pair with in central midfield, Toronto suddenly has a strong and potent midfield.

Not sure about this move from Houston's point of view. Houston likely cashed out early with De Rosario, probably feeling that he's on the wrong side of 30, will fade quicker than some would think and better to get something for him now than nothing for him a year or two from now. Also, players such as Stuart Holden are more than ready to move into a starting role as Houston's depth is as good as there is in MLS. Initially, Houston might struggle without their heart-and-soul but they will be fine. Solid coaching and a core group of players - even without De Ro - will keep Houston strong.

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

nice!!!! this is great news for the canadian game... wayne's from outside toronto, too...

Evan said...

I think this is a really good move by Houston. DRo hasn't equaled his great 2005 and 2006 seasons, and while he'll no doubt continue to contribute, Houston will hope to get a player that can give them great seasons into the future.

In other words, I think this is a win/win for now, but a better move in the long run for Houston.