Toronto FC Vs Orlando City: 3 things to look for – Can Osorio step up?

1. Jonathan Osorio must adapt

With Greg Vanney likely to opt for a 4-2-3-1 consisting of players omitted from his starting line-up in Ottawa, the Reds manager will set out his side in the following manner:

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Jonathan Osorio’s inclusion in the starting line-up seems inevitable insofar as Liam Fraser and Marky Delgado started against the Fury, but it is unclear whether the academy product is capable of playing alongside Michael Bradley in central midfield. Although Osorio had a fine game against the Red Bulls going forward, he struggled defensively. Both of New York’s goals resulted from attacks taking place on his side of the pitch, and the Brampton native’s lazy tackle in the penalty area on Marc Rzatkowski resulted in a penalty kick for the home side.

With Jacob Shaffelburg heavily relied upon by Vanney and the additions of wingers Erickson Gallardo and Nicolas Benezet, Osorio must prove himself in central midfield to secure a spot Vanney’s preferred starting line-up. As such, Osorio must put forth maximum effort on both sides of the ball against Orlando if he wants to continue to partner Michael Bradley in central midfield for the remainder of the season.

For Toronto FC, a midfield three of Bradley, Osorio and the sometimes unplayable Alejandro Pozuelo could be one of the best in MLS. But it required Osorio adapting his skill set to central midfield.