May 1, 2008 MLS Toronto FC Maurice Edu looking forward to New York game (from Toronto FC Media Relations)
05/01/2008 11:22AM
Edu ready to face charged Red Bulls
Toronto midfielder anticipating matchup with Altidore
Toronto FC Media Relations
Maurice Edu is looking forward to taking on one of his US international teammates when Toronto FC take on New York Red Bulls at BMO Field, Thursday night. Edu has played alongside Jozy Altidore at various different levels of international football, including the US senior team. The 2007 MLS Rookie of the Year is well aware of Altidore's strengths.
"Jozy Altidore, he's a good player. He's strong one on one and he's able to create chances for himself. It's important for us to limit his space. We have to force him to play with his back to the goal and not let him turn and run at us. He's very dangerous on the ball so we have to close him down quickly and limit his touches on the ball."
Edu expects New York to be in a confident mood following their win over the San Jose Earthquakes on Sunday.
"New York will be a good game. They're coming off a big win against San Jose and they have done well because they've been missing a lot of injured guys but they might be ready for this game. If Juan Pablo Angel, Dane Richards and Hunter Freeman come back in, it will really strengthen their team," said Edu.
"New York are going to come here with some confidence after picking up a good win and they're going to be thinking they can get three points here. I think for us going into the game we've got to keep doing the same things we have been doing the last couple of games defend as a unit, create a lot of chances and capitalize on them. We've had a good few days of training here, the guys are confident and we're looking to get another three points."
GAMEDAY UPDATE
We know it's difficult getting to the stadium for a 7:00 PM start, but with the game being broadcast live across the U.S. it would be great if you could arrive as early as possible. We want to show everyone watching on TV that TFC has the best supporters in MLS. The game will kick off no later than 7:10 PM, and if you're driving here you might want to give yourself extra time to park because there's a concert at the Ricoh Coliseum on Thursday night.
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