Injuries, suspensions, national team duties leave TFC shorthanded versus Timbers

TORONTO – Toronto FC will be without a number of regulars when the Major League Soccer club hosts the Portand Timbers on Wednesday night.

Injuries, suspensions and national team duties leave TFC coach Paul Mariner with few options, especially in defence.

The newly-signed Darren O’Dea is with the Republic of Ireland for a friendly against Serbia, while fellow defenders Dicoy Williams (Jamaica) and Doneil Henry (Canada) are also on international duty. Add to that the suspension to Logan Emory and the injury to Jeremy Hall and Toronto FC is extremely thin at the back.

Adrian Cann, who hasn’t seen action in MLS play since June 16, looks set to start in the centre of the defence alongside Richard Eckersley. Aston Morgan practised with the first team at leftback on Tuesday, while the out-of-favour Ty Harden could see his first league action since April 7 on the right.

The defence isn’t the only area of concern for Mariner. Also missing out for the Reds because of international callups are midfielder Terry Dunfield (Canada) and forward Ryan Johnson (Jamaica).

Toronto FC (5-13-4) sits last in the standings with 19 points, but can overtake Portland (5-12-5, 20 points) with a win.