Lambe makes quick impression at Toronto

MM 13.7.11 MERTHYR V NEWPORT COUNTY reggie lamb NEWPORT



Reggie Lambe is determined to revive his career at Toronto FC and cant wait to showcase himself against David Beckhams LA Galaxy next month.

Toronto take on Galaxys star-studded side in the Concacaf Champions League quarterfinals on March 7, a game which has already sold out the 50,000 seat Rogers Centre.

Lambe admits playing in front of such a sizeable crowd, against the reigning MLS champions, will be the biggest match of his fledgling career, although he balks at the suggestion of any pre-match nerves.

The game LA Galaxy is a big event, probably the biggest Ill play in, said the 20-year-old, who has been in impressive form in pre-season training for Toronto.

I just want to get out there and play and show everyone what I can do.

As a player, you dont really notice the big crowd, if anything its brings out the best in you.

The new season cant come sooner enough for Lambe who has spent the last eight months without a club after being released by English side Ipswich Town last summer.

He agreed a four-year contract with Toronto on December 7 and believes the MLS will be an ideal fit for his pass and move style of play.

My game style is just to get down the wing, cross the ball and work hard, said Lambe, who will wear the number 19 shirt.

I prefer to play on the left but I can also play on the right. It doesnt matter to me. I normally switch during the games. I think Im a more athletic person towards running and being fit, those sort of things.

He also reckons the 4-3-3 formation preferred by Toronto coach Aaron Winter will suit him.

I love that, he said. I like playing pass, pass, one-twos. Thats my type of game.

Lambe has caught the eye of Winter in training with the ex-Lazio midfielder liking what hes seen so far.

We knew he was a young kid but a kid with a lot of quality, head coach Aron Winter said. He has got skills.

Lambe, who was able to dust off a few cobwebs during Bermudas World Cup qualifying campaign late last year, will be the first Bermudian to grace the MLS since Khano Smith.

Smith spent six seasons in the league, spending five seasons at New England Revolution as well as a short stint at New York Red Bulls.

Lambe made four Carling Cup starts and two Championship substitute appearances during his time at Ipswich. He also played seven games while on loan at Bristol Rovers last term.