Toronto FC goalkeeper Greg Sutton admits the team has to perform more consistently throughout next season. The Reds finished four points outside the playoff places and were made to pay for a summer slump.
"I think overall we had some improvement," said Sutton. "We had a rollercoaster of the season, and one thing we need to improve on for next year is our consistency of play and our play on the road. If we can improve on those things next season will hopefully be a different story and we will hopefully still be playing at this point in the year."
"We didn't take care of some of the little things and we conceded a lot of late goals. You can't take things for granted and we need to work hard to make sure we eliminate errors and become more consistent. Hopefully we can add some pieces to our puzzle here and bring in some guys who can help us get to the playoffs. I don't think there is any reason why we can't go into next season with high expectations and make the playoffs. We've got to give something back. Not only for the fans, but for everyone here. There are a lot of people working very hard to make this club a success," said Sutton.
Sutton made 24 league appearances for Toronto in 2008 after missing much of the previous season through injury. "I think it was a decent year for me. I was consistent, and that's something that every goalkeeper wants to be. Every off-season there are things you want to work on and it goes in cycles. Some years there are parts of your game going well and then the following year you can struggle with the same thing, so it's always important to keep working on everything," said Sutton.
Sutton worked alongside Brian Edwards in training and was impressed with the way the rookie developed during the season. "Brian is someone who is learning his trade now and has done well for himself. It's always good to have someone there competing with you and it brings out the best in you. Brian is a very capable goalkeeper and he's got a bright future for himself ahead. It's important to have two guys that can work each other." Edwards made six MLS appearances in 2008.
Sutton is looking forward to spending the winter with his new baby daughter Maya, Elizabeth who was born in September. "It's going to be fun. I'm looking forward to spending time with my daughter now and watching her grow. We'll keep an eye on her and make sure she is doing the right things but I'll also keep in shape and make sure I'm working on my game in the offseason."
