Joao Plata has been named the MLS player of the week.
In the grand scheme of things it doesn’t mean much, but it’s further good news for TFC fans to distract from a poor start to the season . It’s also another check mark for Plata, who is quickly becoming a fan favourite to rival even a Dichio, Brennan or Frei for popularity at BMO Field. If he has many more games like Saturday, they might start singing a song for him in the 53rd minute of every game (‘cause he’s 5’3” see) or something.
I’d be willing to bet that Aron Winter is a little upset that Plata was honoured. Not because he doesn’t want good things for his player, but rather because he wants to keep expectations to a minimal. About 12 times a press conference Winter will remind people that it’s a re-building year and that players like Plata are still young.
[PRBREAK][/PRBREAK]
Coach Winter should relax a bit. Most TFC fans understand that Plata is unlikely to have many more games like Saturdays this season. He is small and he is young and he will get neutralized in many of his appearances. The Toronto fan appreciates the effort Plata brings as must as the result, so there is little worry that they will turn on him anytime soon.
What’s most exciting about Plata from a tactical perspective is that he finally brings the Reds some width on the pitch. He’s likely the first pure winger TFC has had since Rohan Ricketts discovered Twitter. Winter’s system demands players that can spread the field up and create from the outside. Plata has been the best player this season at doing that vital job (although Jacob Peterson has played much better this year than he often gets credit for). Under Mo Johnston, the roster make-up of TFC rarely made sense (let’s carry five holding midfielders!), but the one thing Winter and Paul Mariner seem to be doing is finding guys that play roles and do it for a salary that makes sense.
As stated, TFC has not had the best start to the season. However, they remain in the Nutriltie Canadian Cup and within touching distance of the playoffs. Games like Saturday and performances like Plata’s make those of us that remain optimistic about the season look less naive.
And that’s a good thing.
NOTE: Plata needs a nickname. How about it Reds’ fans? What should his nickname be?