Ricketts, Caps In Discussions For Opportunities ‘Off The Pitch’

Veteran striker Tosaint Ricketts, 35, could be hanging up his boots.

The Vancouver Whitecaps released a roster update today that was highlighted by departure of World Cup-bound striker Lucas Cavallini, but buried behind that came the confirmation that the ‘Caps had declined their contract option for Ricketts.

The 35-year-old remains in discussions with the club regarding opportunities off the pitch, suggesting a more permanent role in the front office could be on the horizon. He’d already donned the role of VWFC’s Manager of Community Impact, but what happens to that once he’s no longer rostered isn’t in the clear.

Alternatively, the striker is eligible for MLS Free Agency should he wish to remain playing in the league.

The Edmonton-born striker had made 65 appearances while out west, just one short of the number he accrued with Toronto FC between 2016-2018. The well-travelled veteran also completed 61 appearances for the national team, with many fans having thought a swan song in the Canadian Premier League might be on the horizon.

With hometown FC Edmonton on the verge of folding and Ricketts still in discussions with the ‘Caps regarding his next career steps, however, that doesn’t look likely.

Ricketts recently took his first steps as a member of the media through TSN, helping aid the network’s coverage of Canada’s World Cup roster reveal while on-site in Qatar. While the end of his playing career might be unfolding, what happens next for the veteran striker remains to be seen.