2014 Philadelphia Union Player Review: Sebastien Le Toux

2014 Summary

For the Union, Sebastien Le Toux once again led the way offensively for the Philadelphia Union. After featuring in 29 games, including 23 starts, the Frenchman finished with a team-leading twelve goals and seven assists. Only midfielder Cristian Maidana had more assists with eleven. Playing with the likes of Conor Casey and Andrew Wenger, Le Toux provided Philadelphia with a consistent attacking option throughout the season, only trailing Wenger for most shots on goal with 21. Even when he wasn't scoring, the 30-year old made sure his presence was felt out on the field. During a four-month stretch from June 28 to September 6, Le Toux featured in eleven games, averaging 87 minutes a game and going all 90 in eight of them. Unfortunately, he suffered an ankle injury in late September in a game versus D.C. United, and was not used as a substitute in two of the final four games.

What he did right

Throughout the year, Le Toux consistently showed veteran qualities for Philadelphia. When he didn't find his name on the score sheet he was making a difference in other areas, whether it was generating chances in the offensive third for his teammates or providing a necessary presence on the defensive end. In two instances, Le Toux found the back of the net twice. In June, he scored two of the Union's three goals in a 3-1 victory of the New England Revolution. Two months later in a matchup versus the Montreal Impact, Le Toux picked up another brace, this time singlehandedly giving Philadelphia a 2-1 victory.

What he did wrong

During a late playoff push, Le Toux could not make the impact he had made earlier in the season. After scoring a goal in a 2-2 tie against the New York Red Bulls in September, he did not register another point until the season finale, earning an assist in the 2-1 loss to the Columbus Crew. As I stated above, he didn't come off the bench in two of the last four contests, going as an unused substitute in Philadelphia's games versus the Chicago Fire and Sporting Kansas City. He also only managed a total of four shots in the last three games he was a part of, with three coming in one game. Being such a vital part of the offense, his lack of execution surely hurt the Union in the end.

Most Memorable Moment

When looking at the game log for Le Toux, there is one game that sticks out. In a 4-2 win over the San Jose Earthquakes in August, he played a part in every Philadelphia goal, scoring once and assisting on the other three. This contest was a prime example of how important Le Toux was to this offense. Known for his hard work and ability to cover an absurd amount of ground, one goal that demonstrates his offensive awareness came in the Union's win over New England in June. Anticipating a pass back, Le Toux pounced on a mistake from Revolution defender Jose Goncalves and lifted one over the goalkeeper into the back of the net.

Future Expectations

There is no doubt that Le Toux will be back for another season with Philadelphia. With another season under his books, it will be interesting to see if he will be able to keep up his high level of production for Jim Curtin's side. As the top scorer for the Union, I expect him to enhance his partnerships with fellow forwards Casey and Wenger - and any new strikers brought in. As for next season, I expect Le Toux to continue to be an offensive weapon for Philadelphia, regardless of who is playing alongside him.