The theme of Toronto FC’s 2016 season to date has been “Next Man Up.” Whether it was navigating a season-opening eight-game road trip, dealing with injuries to players like Jozy Altidore, Michael Bradley, Clint Irwin and Benoit Cheyrou, or moving on quickly when the breaks of the game have gone against them, coach Greg Vanney’s Reds have forged onward. Toronto FC has gotten contributions from up and down the roster, and has everything to play for with seven games remaining in the MLS regular season. Here’s a look at some of the key numbers that help tell the story of TFC’s season-to-date.
24 unique starting lineups have been sent out by Greg Vanney, with only three starting combinations being used more than once this season. This has included 23 different starters used during the campaign.
23players have made at least five appearances for the club. Nineteen of which have played at least 500 minutes (I.e. Nineteen players have played at least 20% of the team's minutes).
21games where the trio of Justin Morrow, Drew Moor and Steven Beitashour have started together. The team currently has the best defensive record in the Eastern Conference, and these three have played a major role in that. The core of the defense is healthy and ready to go.
15games where at least one homegrown player have started for the Reds. This includes eight times where two have started, the most since the 2013 season. The 2016 season has also seen a record four different homegrown players make first team appearances.
9 multi-goal scorers this season. This matches the franchise record that has been reached in 2014, 2011, and 2009. This is up from the seven multi-goal scorers last season.
9games where all three designated players have started together. Due to Injury or International duty, the three DPs have only lined up for nine or 33% of the team's games together this season. Jozy Altidore has missed eleven games and Michael Bradley has missed ten. While Giovinco has missed just one game but is set to miss more with his recent injury.
7different formations have been drawn up by coach Greg Vanney this season. The most frequently used formation has been the 4-4-2 with a diamond midfield. Vanney has gone to this formation nine times resulting in four wins.
