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TORONTO, Canada—These stories sort of write themselves, eh?
According to ESPN’s Jeff Carlisle, Toronto FC have told striker Jozy Altidore to train on his own and apart from the first team following a disagreement with head coach Chris Armas.
The report states that Altidore was upset about being subbed off in the 70th minute for Ayo Akinola in the Reds’ 1-0 loss to Orlando City with TFC needing a goal, and made his feelings known to Armas. Altidore hasn’t been fined, according to Carlisle, but his status for Saturday’s match against Columbus remains up in the air.
Sources: #TFCLive have told #usmnt striker Jozy Altidore to train on his own apart from the first team after a disagreement with manager Chris Armas: https://t.co/t6D4MCmTGH
— Jeff Carlisle (@JeffreyCarlisle) May 28, 2021
Earlier this offseason, following controversial comments from U.S. men’s national team head coach Gregg Berhalter, Carlisle reported that Altidore was pushing for a move away from Toronto FC after a clash with General Manager Ali Curtis. Altidore later took to Twitter to (somewhat vaguely) deny the rumours.
Don’t believe everything you read. The devil is working overtime.
— Jozy Altidore (@JozyAltidore) January 30, 2021
Altidore has made six appearances so far this season, starting six matches, netting one goal. He ranks second all-time in goals scored for Toronto FC since joining the club in 2015, and is under contract through 2022, and is making a guaranteed $3.6 million this season according to the MLSPA.
According the Canadian Press’ Neil Davidson, Ali Curtis has responded, replying: “Internal matter that we are keeping in-house.”
For what it’s worth, the primary transfer window closes in five days (June 1) with the secondary transfer window opening again on July 7.
What do you make of these rumours? Fact or fiction? Let us know in the comments!