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Tsubasah Endoh is off the mark for his first professional team.
Early in the second half of Toronto FC’s season opener against FC Dallas, Endoh played a ball to Giovinco out wide before making a run into the box. The Atomic Ant played a fine ball to the rookie midfielder, who calmly finished past goalkeeper Jesse Gonzalez.
Take a bow @tsubasa_endoh! Watch the moment again. #TFCLive pic.twitter.com/mDwPm53L0Y
— Toronto FC (@torontofc) May 8, 2016
A graduate of the University of Maryland system, the Tokyo native has consistently been praised by head coach Greg Vanney for his technical ability. Known for having a strong engine to support attack and defense, Endoh had a fantastic game. Giovinco and Endoh were involved in countless interchanges in play, opening up the FC Dallas defense.
Endoh has gone straight from college soccer to stepping into the starting line-up this year for the Reds. Minus injury, it is rare for the rookie to not be any part of the match day line-up. Featuring in attacking midfield or at wing, expect Endoh to get a lot of playing time down the stretch. As with any rookie, expect him to make mistakes overplaying the ball or being consumed by the big moment of professional soccer. However, there is enough talent and ability for this player to be a regular MLS footballer in the future.