MLS Toronto FC

TFC Signs Striker Smith

August 15, 2008 - Major League Soccer (MLS)
Toronto FC News Release


Toronto FC announced Friday the signing of free agent forward Johann Smith. Toronto FC sent allocation money to New England and swapped places with the Revolution, going from the 13th place in the allocation ranking to 2nd, to acquire the former Bolton Wanderers striker.

"We were lucky to beat out four other teams to get his signature," said manager, director of soccer Mo Johnston. "He's got the pace of Marvell Wynne, and can get by players. We're very thrilled to have him, he adds youth and we're looking forward to working with him."

Smith, 21, joins Toronto FC after spending the bulk of his time with Bolton Wanderers Academy in England. He made his team debut in the Premiership in Bolton's Carling Cup defeat at Charlton Athletic in October of 2006 when he came on as a second half substitute. Smith then joined Carlisle United on loan in January of 2007, and made his debut there against Doncaster Rovers. He scored his first professional goal on April 29, 2007 against Swansea City.

Internationally, Smith is currently listed in the U.S. U-23 player pool. He was named to the FIFA U-20 World Cup squad that competed in Toronto in the summer of 2007 but a pre-tournament injury forced him to withdraw from competition. In five appearances for the U-20's he has scored four goals. Smith was loaned out to League Two side Darlington in mid-October and followed that up with a loan spell at Stockport County.

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