Thu Apr 3 13:09:01 2008

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Toronto FC signs former French international

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Toronto, ON (Sports Network) - Toronto FC signed former French international midfielder Laurent Robert on Wednesday.

Robert, 32, is a proven veteran with a resume that lists a number of Europe's biggest clubs, including Newcastle United, Benfica and Paris Saint Germain.

"We are thrilled to have Laurent join Toronto FC and become part of our club", TFC manager Mo Johnston said. "He's a tremendous player with a lot of talent and we expect him to come in and make an impact with our team straight away. He's played at every level, and is a true professional in every respect."

Robert was recently freed of his contractual obligations with Derby County of the English Premiership. Per team and league policy no details of the contract were released.

Robert's biggest career move came when the winger signed with one of England's most storied teams, Newcastle United, where he played under current Toronto FC coach John Carver.

"I've spent a lot of time with him, and I know a lot about his game," Carver said. "He'll be a big asset to the team, he's got pace, his ability on free kicks is top class and he's a great finisher."

Robert joined the Magpies in 2001 from Paris St. Germain for a fee of nearly $19 million and quickly became recognized as having one of the most powerful shots in the league and clinical in dead ball situations.

He made 181 appearances in all competitions for the club, scoring 32 goals. At Newcastle he participated in a number of big European competitions such as the Champions League, and UEFA Cup qualification.

Robert started his career at Montpellier in France's Ligue 1 in 1994 before making a move to Paris Saint-Germain in 1999. While with PSG he went to the League Cup Finals in 2000.

It was not long after he joined PSG that he made his debut for France against Northern Ireland. He was also part of France's 2001 FIFA's Confederation Cup victory over Japan. He appeared a total of nine times for France, scoring once in France's 4-0 win over Turkey in 2000.

Robert will be available for selection for Toronto's game on Saturday against D.C. United, pending the completion of his International Transfer Certificate.