Toronto FC Waives Five Players

Toronto FC announced Wednesday they have waived Gabe Gala, Martin Saric, Maxim Usanov, Raivis Hscanovics and Mista.

“This is the next step as we continue to plan for the 2011 season,” said Earl Cochrane, Toronto FC interim director of soccer. “This was a collective decision after discussions between the team management and the coaching staff. We thank all five of the players for their contribution to Toronto FC during their time with the club.”

Gala, 21, made four league starts in four seasons with the club. He made 10 appearances in the 2010 regular season, nine as substitute. The former Canada U-20 international scored the only goal for Toronto in a 5-1 defeat against Real Madrid in an international friendly at BMO Field in August 2009.

Saric, 31, was signed on the eve of the 2010 season opener. The Argentine midfielder went on to make 17 league appearances. Latvian left back Raivis Hscanovics and Russian right back Maxim Usanov both signed for Toronto in April 2010. Hscanovics made his debut in a 4-1 defeat at New England Revolution on April 10 and Usanov’s first start was in the 2010 Home Opener win over Philadelphia Union on April 15.

After a long career in Spain, Mista, 32, crossed the Atlantic to sign with Toronto FC in July, 2010. He made his debut in the Carlsberg Cup international friendly against Bolton Wanderers on July 21. Mista made nine appearances in MLS and registered one assist. His only goal for Toronto came in a 2-1 win at home to Cruz Azul of Mexico in the opening match of the 2010 CONCACAF Champions League Group Stage.