Toronto FC go from strength to strength with Justin Morrow extension

Toronto FC received a boost ahead of the MLS season, after signing one of the league’s best defenders to a multi-year extension.

If you thought Toronto FC were good during their record-breaking season in 2017, it’s possible they might be even better this year. They continue to make moves to improve and strengthen the best roster in MLS.

This was best highlighted by the recent signing of Gregory van der Wiel, to replace Steven Beitashour. Heck, TFC even brought in Auro on loan to back van der Wiel up, making the right back position stronger than ever.

However, being arguably the model franchise in MLS — how times have changed — means also retaining players who are a major part of your success. Once such example came on Thursday.

As reported by Sportsnet‘s John Molinaro, Toronto FC have signed Justin Morrow to a multi-year contract extension. Terms of the deal have not been released at this time.

Morrow has been an extremely consistent and durable presence for the Reds during his time in Southern Ontario. However, he took his play to another level in 2017, with his most successful campaign yet.

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As noted by Molinaro, the 30-year-old finished second in the voting for MLS defender of the year and was named to the MLS Best XI for the 2017 season. He also set a career-high with eight goals.

From a team perspective, Morrow was part of a defense which conceded the fewest goals in the Eastern Conference and was third-best overall in MLS. And of course, he helped the Reds secure the first Supporters’ Shield and MLS Cup in franchise history.

General manager Tim Bezbatchenko shared his thoughts about the 2012 MLS All-Star in a press release. As reported by the Canadian Press via the Toronto Sun, Bezbatchenko said:

"“Justin is one of the players who has led our turnaround as a club over the last few seasons. He has established himself as one of the best left backs in Major League Soccer. He has played such an important part in what we have accomplished as a club and will continue to as we compete for more championships.”"

Next: TFC advance in Champions League

What is your take on Morrow’s TFC career to date? And looking at the team in general, what kind of success are you predicting for 2018? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.