After making 32 appearances for his previous team, BSC Young Boys of the Swiss Super League, during their 2016-2017 season, Scott Sutter almost immediately found himself in the starting right back role for the Orlando City Lions. The Swiss international — that’s right I said Swiss — made a profound impact at right back, both defensively and on the opposite side of the pitch. Starting in 30 matches for the Lions in 2017, Sutter was a constant and consistent force on the right side of the pitch, adding some much-needed balanced play to the back line.

Statistical Breakdown

Clocking in at 2,729 minutes played in 2017 (30 starts and two substitutions), Sutter ranked second on the first team in minutes played this season. He had an 80.4% passer rating for the season, landing him in the top 10 for the club. Remember, a number of passes coming from him are generated by runs down the line, charging the corner, and whipping a cross in, which he seemed to do with ease regularly throughout the season. He logged one goal — a last-gasp equalizer at Seattle — and four assists this season as well.

On the defensive side, he averaged two tackles, 1.5 interceptions, and two clearances per match. It was obvious towards the end of the season that he was tired some matches, as would be expected from a player that is participating in his second consecutive season after leaving Europe, with little to no rest in between.

Best Game

Sutter’s best match, and there were a few to choose from, could be the May 3 match against Toronto FC. The Lions eventually fell to Toronto 2-1, but Sutter was all over the field, creating multiple chances offensively and helping to shut down — at times — the Toronto offense in the Lions’ defensive third as well. The performance in this match earned Sutter a MOTM award for his effort.

Final 2017 Grade

The Mane Land staff gave Sutter a 6.5 for the season. He was “Mr. Consistent” for the 2017 campaign. Sure, there were a few questionable moments during the season, but those are always going to happen. I wont remind you that he has played two full seasons this year without the benefit of an off-season.

2018 Outlook

I think Sutter deserves this off-season, and hopefully he gets some rest and enjoys himself a little. There is no doubt that Sutter, if healthy, owns the right back spot in Orlando’s current back four. He can certainly handle the position offensively, and showed just how well he can move forward on the flank with the attack. He also showed great patience and timing in the defensive third, rarely being caught out of position, and having the cognizance to work with constantly rotating center back pairs in a rather seamless way. I expect an even greater year from Sutter in 2018.

Previous 2017 Player Season in Review Posts (Date Published)