Marvell Wynne and Maurice Edu - they're packing their bags for the Olympics and it's matter of when, not if, they'll be leaving Toronto for good.

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Congratulations go out to Toronto FC's Marvell Wynne and Maurice Edu for their selection to the U.S. Olympic soccer team this week. It's a real testament to these players for just how good their performance has been this season and last. To be selected to represent your country at the Olympics may not hold the same weight as a selection to a World Cup team, but nonetheless, it's an outstanding achievement in itself.

The pair of 22-year-olds take a man's share of criticism week in and week out (why is Wynne so out of position? how can Edu miss from there?) but we expect the most from those who show the most potential.

And sadly, it's that potential that will probably see one, if not the both of them, off to play in Europe or abroad in the next year. Attending the Olympics, representing their nation, is going to undoubtably raise their profile on the international football scene, and for Toronto's part, add weight to their worth pending a good showing.

The consensus has been that Edu would be the first on the roster to be plucked from Toronto and head abroad. His often cited website (with it's too few Toronto FC photos) and the rumoured ego that appears to be creeping into his attitude (read: holding a contest to choose his new goal celebration) are a few of the knocks held against the kid. But despite his obvious talents, I don't think he's at a level yet that will grant him a chance to play abroad. There are area's of his game, like most young players, that still need rounding out - ability to anticipate a developing play is one of them and staying focused and involved for the full 90 minutes is another - but club's will see that for what it is and they will come find him when he's ready.

Based on his development as a player I'm hazarding a guess that Edu will be gone by 2010. No sooner.

Wynne on the other hand, is far more likely to part ways in the immediate future. It's an interesting development that the Olympics falls on a period during which the international football transfer window is open. In fact, the men's gold medal match takes place eight days before the MLS transfer window is due to close. So, imagine for a second what Toronto, or MLSE, might do if they were offered a big money package or quality striker (something they desperately need) in return. Obviously, I'm just spit balling here, but if Wynne proves to be a standout for the USA, the potential for an offer to be tabled before the end of August is certainly plausible.

That may be a bit quick but Wynne is gone before the next Toronto campaign begins.

- Ben Rycroft

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Post to my facebook too

Dudes from Toronto are funny looking.

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