De-Ro says “no” to Gold Cup, should MLS keep ignoring FIFA dates?

Dwayne De Rosario recently stated how his goals for the season are to help Toronto FC make the playoffs for the first time in their 3 year history, even at the expense of international duty and the Gold Cup.

“I told Stephen Hart I was 60/40 on it, and in the end it is always tough because you do not want to leave your position with the team, but right now my commitment is with Toronto FC.” said De Rosario.

“I have decided to make full commitment to Toronto FC right now and I really want to focus on the season,” De Rosario said. “It is s a big year ahead of us and I want to make sure that we accomplish what I want to accomplish here, even it if means sacrificing national team games.”

“That is why the 40 percent is there. I know how special it is to play in big tournaments,” De Rosario said. “But in the same breath I am here with TFC and I am trying to create a championship here. Stephen knows where I stand.”

In the long run it comes down to the debate over the MLS ignoring international dates. I have no problem with De Rosario wanting to remain at TFC and help them get back to winning ways, as they have been struggling of late. This will help Hart lead toward a more European influenced squad; as most European leagues have wrapped up their seasons.

It is looking more likely that Hart will be fielding a more European-centric squad at the Gold Cup, similar to the one that impressed in Cyprus 2 weeks ago. The squad announcement will come in the next few weeks.

Coming soon: 2009 CONCACAF 2009 Gold Cup Preview, Pt.1: The Background