New management’s plan for Toronto FC to play an uptempo, attacking brand of soccer has suffered a serious blow even before training camp opens.

The Major League Soccer club announced Tuesday morning that up-and-coming Canadian teenager Nicholas Lindsay will have to undergo two different surgeries over the coming months after tearing up his knee.

The 18-year-old from Brampton, Ont., is expected to miss the entire 2011 season.

“Nicholas made huge strides in the short time he has been with the team and has a bright future ahead of him,” said Earl Cochrane, TFC director of team and player operations, said in a statement. “We will support him with everything he needs to make a full recovery.”

Lindsay, a fleet-footed winger, made four MLS appearances for TFC late last season after becoming the second player from the club’s youth academy to sign on with the big club. He had three assists and brought a spark to the lineup.

When TFC last week introduced its new management team led by Dutchman Aron Winter as head coach and technical director, they said the emphasis will be on attacking soccer with three strikers leading the way.

While short on experience, Lindsay’s speed down the wing, skill on the ball and ability to get it into the middle appear made for such a style of play.

The club is not saying how Lindsay sustained the injury, which will require surgery to repair both the ACL and MCL in his left knee.

The first surgery is scheduled for Wednesday. The second one will take place four to six months later.

It’s hoped that Lindsay will be ready for the 2012 season.