Dunfield says it was “difficult” to hear about Thordarson’s firing

Terry Dunfield

Vancouver Whitecaps’ midfielder Terry Dunfield joined the Canadian men’s national team Monday morning in Toronto. That afternoon, Dunfield was surprised to learn his club coach, Teitur Thordarson, was sacked by Whitecaps management.

“It was sort of a surprise to me a little bit,” said Dunfield after the national team practice Tuesday morning at BMO Field. “It’s difficult when you see not only a good manager, but a good person lose his job. But it’s important we move on from that now.”

When asked if Thordarson was given a fair chance and fired prematurely, Dunfield replied, “I don’t think it’s for me to say.”

Dunfield had spoken to his teammates after he heard the news and said they were surprised as well, but he took the time to also share some veteran advice.

“The guys were a little bit surprised but it can sort of be a ruthless game at times,” said Dunfield. “As a player and as sort of a leader on the team, it’s important that the players don’t dwell on this too long and try to move on and carry on playing like we have been and turn some of these good performances into wins.”

Thordarson previously led the Whitecaps to one USL championship and another USL final in his time at the helm. However, his time as a coach in Vancouver’s first season in MLS was very short-lived despite his club being able to compete at a high level every match. The Icelandic native only lasted 12 games with a record of 1-6-5, but the firing came as a surprise to many Canadian soccer followers. The team was supposed to rebuild slowly and become a contender over time, but club President Bob Lenarduzzi decided to fast-track the plan.

The club’s Director of Soccer Operations and former D.C. United coach, Tom Soehn, takes over as the new head coach of the Whitecaps. Dunfield is familiar with Soehn in his previous role, but admits he does not know him very well. With a change in coach, the midfielder also expects some change in team philosophy and style of play as well.

“No, I know his record as a coach — he’s won an MLS Cup (as an assistant),” said Dunfield. “He definitely has a lot of experience in the league, but I’ve yet to speak to him since he’s become full-time manager. I’m sure things will change a little bit, but hopefully that’ll bring results.”

Despite the big change with his club team, Dunfield’s focus has shifted entirely to representing the national team as it prepares for the Gold Cup. Canada is holding a camp in Alliston, Ont. and will play an international friendly tomorrow against Ecuador in Toronto.

“At the moment I’m going to concentrate on the month ahead of me here (with national team) and hopefully the guys can carry on where we left off.”