Player Profile: Doneil Henry

Doneil Henry

Position: Central Defender

Age: 18

Height: 6'2"

Weight: 180 lbs

Born: Brampton, Ontario

Doneil Henry is the first graduate of the Toronto FC Academy when he signed a pro contract in 2010. He started his career last season as a 17 year old playing in 3 matches but none in the league. His most notable appearance last season was in a friendly against Bolton Wanderers where Henry impressed so much that he was selected Man of the Match against the Premier League opponent. Henry was one of Toronto FC's top youth prospects through out his whole time while playing the academy and strong performances with the side soon paid off with first team opportunities.

A member of the Canadian U20 team, Henry has cracked the Toronto FC starting line up this season due to injuries at the back. Henry made his first start on the weekend in the 2-2 draw with L.A. Galaxy. Manager Winter showed his trust in the 18 year old by letting him play the full 90 minutes. It was his first start of the season and his career but was his second appearance of the season following a short substitute appearance against Sporting Kansas City.

Doneil Henry has broken into the squad because of injuries to Nana Attakora and Adrian Cann leaving TFC thin at the back, but the 18 year old Brampton native has taken his opportunity very well making a claim for further appearances with both Toronto and Canada. Henry was very impressive in tonight's 0-0 draw with New England Revolution. His age never showed as he kept things tidy at the back and kept the Revolution attack away from goal.

With impressive performances with the Toronto FC first team at the young age of 18 years old, the tall, lanky central defender is one of the most promising players in TFC squad. What's good for Toronto is also good for Canada in this circumstance. Henry has the potential to be a good defender in the MLS and given the chance should do a fine job at the back with the Canadian men's national team.