Toronto FC’s most reliable defender is back in the fold for 2016.

The club announced the signing of Justin Morrow to a new multi-year contract on Monday. As per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

In two seasons with the club Morrow has started 61 games and played 5,432 minutes. Morrow was used in every position on the backline in 2015 as TFC dealt with injuries and inconsistent play.

“He prepares very well, said head coach Greg Vanney of Morrow in September. “He’s very organized; he’s very meticulous in how he prepares week in and week out.”

The 28-year-old had an eventful year, topped by the birth of his daughter in September. Though the season ended with a thud in Montreal, Morrow sees reason for hope heading into the new year. “I don’t know if you can consider the way [the season] ended a success, but making the playoffs was a big achievement for this club,” said the veteran.

Morrow singled out the lack of continuity among the back four in 2015 as a large reason for the Reds’ defensive struggles. TFC conceded a league worst 58 goals.

“When we had our number one lineup on the field I felt comfortable with our team, but we just never seemed to have that for a consistent time of the season where we could really grow together,” said Morrow. “If you do have the chance to stay together we’ll have the chance to grow [from this season]. We’ve taken a step, and it’s one step in the process.”

Morrow’s return is a positive step in terms of retaining the core of the squad from last season. Surrounding this group with players up for the main goal, playoff success, continues as the offseason approaches.

“Toronto’s gotta be up there in terms of the top places to play in MLS, in terms of the city and the people,” Morrow said. “Management shows that they want to win.”

By re-signing Morrow that message has been delivered, but management’s work this winter is just beginning.