Nottingham Forest-owned defender Richie Laryea has been named in the MLS Team of the Week for his latest performance. The 28-year-old was in fine form as Toronto FC drew 1-1 with Minnesota.
Laryea moved back to Toronto shortly after Forest won promotion back to the Premier League. He’s only actually made five appearances for the Reds and the top flight was always likely to be a step too far for him.
During the 2021/22 campaign, the defender could count himself very unfortunate. He was behind the excellent Djed Spence in the pecking order and he was one of the best players in the Championship.
Laryea is a bit of a hero with Toronto FC. He’s made 110 appearances, scoring 11 goals and claiming 21 assists, with the club’s supporters very fond of the player who has 39 caps for Canada.
On Sunday, the international was in fantastic form. He was called ‘impressive’ by his loan club’s official website and set up a goal for Lorenzo Insigne during the 1-1 draw.
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It was claimed that he won 88.9% of his duels during the contest. Toronto were stung late on though when Minnesota equalised with just a minute remaining.
Forest-owned Laryea in fine form for Toronto FC
It’s clear that Laryea enjoys playing for Toronto in the MLS. This season alone he’s scored twice and registered five assists for the club where he will remain on loan until July.
At this stage, it’s hard to gauge exactly what will happen with Laryea. He has a contract with Forest until 2025 and they’ll want a fee for any potential sale.
It’s hard to imagine Laryea getting a crack in the Premier League. Serge Aurier and Neco Williams are ahead of him and they’re considered better options.
A crack at an English club would be perfect for Laryea. Forest would then get a real chance to see whether he’s really caught out for football in this country after all.