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Toronto FC: 5 Storylines to Follow for the Remainder of the Season

By Paul Taylor

Aug 6, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto FC forward Sebastian Giovinco (10) celebrates with Toronto FC midfielder Jonathan Osorio (21) after scoring a penalty during the second half in a game against the New England Revolution at BMO Field. Toronto FC won 4-1. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 6, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto FC forward Sebastian Giovinco (10) celebrates with Toronto FC midfielder Jonathan Osorio (21) after scoring a penalty during the second half in a game against the New England Revolution at BMO Field. Toronto FC won 4-1. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports /
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Toronto FC
Jun 25, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Toronto FC goalkeeper Clint Irwin (bottom) lays injured on the field as trainers tend to his leg during the second half of a soccer match against the Orlando City FC at Orlando /

3) When will Clint Irwin return?

As good as TFC were in attack last season, they were that bad in defense, conceding a league-high 58 goals. As such, they set about improving the defence during the offseason, knowing it held the key to them building on their first-ever playoff appearance.

This improvement included bringing in Irwin. Fresh off his best MLS season yet, which included being named to his first All-Star game, the goaltender was expected to provide a solid last line of defence.

In that respect, the Charlotte, North Caroline more than lived up to his reputation, before suffering a quad injury towards the end of June. At the time, he was on course to set personal bests for shutouts and saves in a season.

In fairness, Alex Bono has done an excellent job as his replacement, but Irwin has now been out three weeks longer than originally expected. Of course TFC want to be cautious, but they will need him in goal rather than Bono, as we approach the business end of the season.

Next: History is within striking distance

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