At this time last season, Ashtone Morgan was one of the new faces at Toronto FC training camp trying to get noticed and earn a roster spot. The Toronto FC Academy defender did just that, inking his first professional contract just before the Reds opener and eventually becoming a key team member.

Morgan, who was born and raised in Toronto and turned 21 earlier this month, appeared in 14 Major League Soccer games in 2011, starting at left back and playing the full 90 minutes in the season’s final seven matches. He also appeared in all eight CONCACAF Champions League games as the Reds advanced to the quarter-final round for the first time in team history.

Morgan also made his international debut with Canada’s senior national team in 2011, appearing in two matches in qualifying for the 2014 World Cup. He was named Canadian Under-20 player of the year in December.

Morgan took some time out from the Reds’ training camp in Orlando, Fla. to talk about the different feeling around the club this season from all the familiar faces to the focus on the key Champions League match at Rogers Centre against the defending MLS Cup champion L.A. Galaxy on March 7.

Hey everybody,

Just checking in from Orlando to let you know what we have been up to. Things are going really well down here. The training sessions have all been very good, the weather, hotel, and food are all great.

We got a chance to take in some of the Disney attractions as well, which was really cool!

This pre-season overall has been a much more relaxing atmosphere. Last year there was a lot of travelling and air time, where this year we can really focus on our football. It’s been much easier and we’re doing a lot of good things and the guys are all focusing on the same goals. There is a lot less pressure and I feel more at ease since we have many returning guys this season. It makes things a lot easier and we’re not rushing to meet new people and we can all just focus on working together as a team.

For me personally, I approach every pre-season with the mentality that I do not have a spot on the team and that I need to earn my spot and starting position in every practice. When you have that type of mentality you’re always going to work hard and give your best.

Obviously there is some comfort in knowing I do have a contract and it’s something I don’t need to focus on this pre-season, knowing that you’re part of Toronto FC. That allows my main focus to be playing for my position and improving our club. We’re all working towards the big match on March 7 and the season and we must be ready.

Personally, I want to do everything I can for the club and earn a call-up for Canada during the 2014 World Cup qualifiers this summer.

I also like to help the Academy players that are with us in Orlando as much as I can. I felt that I learned a lot from our coaches in my first season and I’m trying to teach them as well. On the field is one thing, but what we do off of it is equally as important. How to eat properly, how to treat your body, and how to act, we are representing Toronto FC and we must always give our best for the club on and off the field. So anything I can do to help the Academy players I try to do, because I was in their position just last year.

Well we have a busy day Thursday and it’s time for me to go. Looking forward to seeing you all on March 7!

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Talk soon,

Ashtone