The Toronto FC manager Ryan Nelsen will have to do without the services of the German midfielder Tortsen Frings after the veteran announced his retirement. The 36-year-old is currently the star player within the Toronto FC squad, while he is also the highest earner as well. Since joining the club in 2011, he has been one of the influential members over the last few years. However, he has announced his retirement just as Nelsen arrives at the club. The former QPR defender recently took over his first managerial job of his career. He lost in his first friendly match as the Toronto FC manager.
Nelsen will be taking charge of his first game in the MLS when Toronto FC take on Vancouver Whitecaps during the weekend. Even though the departure of Frings means that Nelsen will have a significant wage budget available for him to spend on a high profile player, the departure of one of the established players within the team is certainly a cause for concern. The 36-year-old Frings has been suffering from a number of injury problems in recent years. He has revealed in a statement that he has taken this decision with the best for the team in mind. He has paid tribute to his time with the MLS team.
“I always want to do what’s best for the team and that is why I have decided to step away. I really enjoyed my time in Toronto and playing for Toronto FC. I wish the club all the best this season and hopefully they can continue to embrace the winning spirit that I brought to the team,” said the midfielder. Over the years, he had represented top German clubs like Werder Bremen, Bayern Munich, and Borussia Dortmund. He has also played 79 matches for the national team as well.