Former German international Torsten Frings is joining one of the worst teams in MLS, yet doesn't feel any particular pressure as a Designated Player whom the fans hope can drive Toronto FC up the standings.

“I don’t really concern myself from the pressure from the fans and balancing that,” Frings said through an interpreter, “I’m here to help team morale so the team can score more points. For me that is the main focus. Not the fans.”

Frings, who signed last month along with Dutch striker Danny Koevermans, has moved his girlfriend and two children to Toronto and has been training for the past two weeks. One of a half-dozen players acquired in a midseason overhaul, he's eligible to make his MLS debut Wednesday when TFC hosts FC Dallas. As far as adapting to MLS, he isn't concerned.

“I don’t really bother myself with how MLS plays,” he said. “I’m here to play my game and play well and that is my main focus.”