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Osorio returns to Canada roster in 1st match of post-Floro era

Reuters

After a long hiatus away from the national team fold, Toronto FC midfielder Jonathan Osorio has finally received a Canada call-up for a pair of friendlies, the team's first two matches since Benito Floro was fired as its manager.

Osorio represents one of only a handful of Canadian players garnering consistent playing time at a high level. Considered by Toronto FC manager Greg Vanney as a natural starter, the 24-year-old was inexplicably shunned by Floro over the past two years, with many other players called in his stead.

He returns, now, as one of interim manager Michael Findlay's 23 players chosen to represent the Canucks.

"It will be a vibrant and positive environment for training, competition, and learning," Findlay said in a statement. "Through our ongoing relationship and integration with our Men's EXCEL Program, we have an exciting group of young players who will begin to solidify their spots for years to come."

Osorio is joined by a cast of younger-skewing players, with the likes of Montreal Impact striker Anthony Jackson-Hamel, Vancouver Whitecaps midfielder Marco Bustos, and TFC ace Jordan Hamilton also getting the nod.

A number of players declined call-ups due to club obligations, with Cyle Larin, Tesho Akindele, Will Johnson and Jay Chapman all left out of the squad.

Canada kicks off the post-Floro era against Mauritania and Morocco on Oct. 7 and Oct. 10, during FIFA's international window.

Goalkeepers: Simon Thomas (Bodo/Glimt), Milan Borjan (Ludogorets), Kenny Stamatopoulos (AIK Fotbol)

Defenders: Fraser Aird (Vancouver Whitecaps), Maxim Tissot (Ottawa Fury), Manjrekar James (Vasas Budapest), David Edgar (Whitecaps), Doneil Henry (AC Horsens), Jamar Dixon (Ottawa), Marcel De Jong (Whitecaps), Steven Vitoria (Lechia Gdansk), Karl Ouimette (Jacksonville Armada)

Midfielders: Marco Bustos (Whitecaps), David Hoilett, Tosaint Ricketts (Toronto FC), Jonathan Osorio (Toronto FC), Samuel Piette (CD Izarra), Adam Straith (Fredrikstad FK), Scott Arfield (Burnley)

Forwards: Simeon Jackson (Walsall FC), Marcus Haber, Anthony Jackson-Hamel (Montreal Impact), Jordan Hamilton (Toronto FC)

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