Ansu Toure’s New Career Path



Ansu Toure, a mainstay of the Minnesota Thunder midfield for the past two seasons, was conspicuously missing from the team’s preseason trainings this year. This is because the midfielder/striker has moved to warmer weather in Atlanta Georgia with the Atlanta Silverbacks. A transfer had been in the works from the end of the 2007 season and was culminated earlier this year.

According to the talented midfielder, “This is an exciting time for me and my family. After being in Minnesota for years, I know that this move is the right move for my career. The system here is more conducive to my style of play. The time spent with the Thunder was very valuable to my career. I am thankful to Coach Amos for giving me a chance and providing me with knowledge of the game that has taken my career to a higher level. I will always be grateful to him.”

Upon the recommendation of DISM, the player’s management company, Ansu began his professional career with the Thunder during the latter part of the 2006 season when he was showcased for the last ten games of the season. During that stint, he scored four crucial goals and a couple of assists. 2007 was one of ups and downs as the season was marred with some nagging injuries. However, with rigorous off-season training during Minnesota’s cold winter, Ansu feels he has prepared himself for success during the 2008 season with the Silverbacks. “Coach Smith expects a lot from me and I intend to deliver on his expectations of me”, said Ansu of Jason Smith, the Silverbacks’ head coach since June of 2005.

Seeing Red
Toure, who figured heavily into Smith's plans will have to wait to make his debut as a Silverback due to a suspension he incurred for his ejection in his final game with Minnesota last season. Toure will be available for the April 25 fixture versus Montreal.

Asked about someday representing his country, Ansu said, “I am really looking forward to being called by Coach Hey (the recently appointed German Coach). I represented Liberia’s U-14 squad during my younger days and I relish the idea of helping the country reach the World stage during the 2010 games in South Africa.”