Back in early 2013, a 20-year-old Jonathan Osorio approached his first training camp with Toronto FC with plenty of self-imposed pressure.
"I looked at it as my last chance, really. It was my last chance to make a living off playing football and doing what I love," he recalled.
"It was do-or-die for me," he added.
Ten seasons later, Osorio has become a fixture in the MLS side, a local boy who made good. Technically gifted with excellent vision on the field, the midfielder known simply as Oso is a fan favourite with both TFC and Canada, for whom he has won 55 caps.
And the 29-year-old from nearby Brampton, Ont. is on the verge of another career milestone. His next game in TFC colours will be his 300th in all competitions, extending his franchise record for appearances.
"I realize how, especially in this day, how uncommon that is," Osorio said of his 10 seasons in Toronto. "Even more so uncommon [that] I'm doing it where I grew up. I don't take that lightly. I realize how lucky I am to be where I am right now."
Toronto (3-2-2) takes a four-game unbeaten streak (3-0-1) into the Big Apple on Sunday when it visits defending champion New York City FC (2-3-1). The game is being played at Citi Field, home of the Mets, because the Yankees are at home to the Cleveland Guardians that day.
After setting up Jesus Jimenez for the opening goal in Saturday's 2-1 home win over Philadelphia, Osorio exited in the 56th minute, favouring a leg. He returned to training this, week, however, and is absent from the team's injury list.
With 50 goals for TFC in all competitions, Osorio ranks third in club ranks behind Sebastian Giovinco (83) and Jozy Altidore (79). He has scored against 25 different opponents, according to unofficial club
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