Toronto FC: Shane O’Neill signing will help solidify porous defence

Toronto FC are set to announce the signing of Shane O’Neill and the centre-back should prove to be an excellent addition to the back line.

This past campaign was a historically bad one for Toronto FC, as they set a franchise-worst mark of 66 goals conceded in one regular season. However, they have taken a positive step in turning around the fortunes of a porous defence.

As first reported by the Toronto Sun‘s Steve Buffery, TFC have signed Shane O’Neill. At the time of writing, the move has not yet been officially announced by the club.

The addition of O’Neill should prove to be an excellent one for the Reds, as they aim to bounce back from arguably the worst regular season in club history. The signing is also a necessary one, following the decision to not exercise the contract options for defenders Omar Gonzalez, Eriq Zavaleta and Rocco Romeo.

O’Neill brings a wealth of MLS experience to Toronto, having played a combined eight seasons in Colorado, Orlando and most recently Seattle. He has also spent time in Europe, playing for clubs in Cyprus, Belgium the Netherlands and England.

The 28-year-old will provide much-needed stability and leadership for TFC’s defence. He will also offer some versatility, having successfully played in both the three centre-back system and more traditional 4-4-2 formation during his time with the Sounders.

O’Neill joined the Rapids’ youth system in 2009 and made a name for himself with the Under-18s team. He went on to sign in Colorado as a Homegrown Player in 2012.

As things stand, the Midleton, Cork native seems set to go straight into the Reds’ starting back line. The other five defenders currently on TFC’s roster for the 2022 season include Richie Laryea, Chris Mavinga, Luke Singh, Kemar Lawrence and Auro Álvaro da Cruz Júnior.

What is your opinion of the O’Neill signing? What impact do you think he will have on the Toronto FC defence? Let us know in the comments section below.