Ansu Toure returns to Thunder after trial with Red Bulls
April 5, 2007 - USL First Division (USL-1)
Minnesota Thunder News Release
ST. PAUL, Minn. (Thursday, April 5, 2007) - The Minnesota Thunder announced today the signing of forward Ansu Toure for the 2007 and 2008 seasons. Toure returns to the Thunder after spending the past two months in camp with the New York Red Bulls of Major League Soccer.
The 5-11, 162 pound forward joined the Thunder midway through the 2006 season, scoring a goal two minutes into his USL First Division debut on July 30 against the Atlanta Silverbacks. He finished the year with four goals in 10 games played.
'We were excited that Ansu did so well in camp with Red Bull and absolutely thrilled that when things didn't work out, his first phone call was here to Minnesota," said Thunder head coach Amos Magee. "That shows the affection and loyalty he has for the Thunder and our fans."
Magee sees Toure being able to step into pre-season and make an impact immediately.
"We believe that Ansu can be an All-League player who can create and score goals," said Magee. "Having him for the whole season will allow us to really integrate him into our plan. He is a tremendously exciting player and we expect big things from him this year.'
The Monrovia, Liberia native recently received his United States citizenship. Prior to coming to the Thunder in 2006, Toure played for the St. Paul Twin Stars of the National Premier Soccer League where he scored 27 goals in 14 games.
The Thunder opens its home season on Sunday, May 6 at 5:05 p.m. at James Griffin Stadium against the defending USL Champion Vancouver Whitecaps. The game will be complimentary and NO admission will be charged. For more information, call 651.917.TEAM or visit www.mnthunder.com
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USL First Division Stories from April 5, 2007
- Timbers taking shape - Portland Timbers
- Miami FC tops US U-17's again - Fort Lauderdale Strikers
- Ansu Toure returns to Thunder after trial with Red Bulls - Minnesota Thunder
- Silverbacks announce Cruz Azul ticket information - Atlanta Silverbacks
- Sounders open preseason with a pair of wins - Seattle Sounders
- Carolina RailHawks Strengthen their backline - North Carolina FC
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