Former German international Thorsten Frings was officially introduced yesterday by North American MLS side Toronto FC as a new signing along with Dutch striker Danny Koevermans. Both players come to Canada on free transfers and have signed 'designated player' deals - meaning their contracts fall outside the constrictions of the club's salary cap.
The 34 year old midfielder joins Toronto on recommendation from his former Germany coach Juergen Klinsmann, who is a strategic advisor to the Canadian club. Frings, who made 79 appearances for Germany, had said earlier this year that he would end his career this summer after Bundesliga side SV Werder Bremen did not renew his contract, but in recent weeks it became clear that Frings wanted to continue playing football for a little longer before he retires.
Frings has offers from other Bundesliga sides, his former club Alemannia Aachen who play 2.Bundesliga, clubs from across Europe, the United Arab Emirates and the North American MLS.
"It wasn't a difficult decision for me," Frings said and added, "the first contact came through Juergen Klinsmann and he said a lot of good things about the club. It was clear to be quickly that I want to come here and help the club to improve."
For Toronto FC coach Aron Winter, a former Dutch international, the arrival of Frings and Koevermans adds much needed experience for a team which has only won two matches in the MLS so far and are last in the Eastern Division, but they can still reach the playoffs.
Both Frings and Koevermans are not eligible to play for their new club until July 15. Their MLS debuts are therefore likely to come against FC Dallas on July 20.
