Gambia News : Toronto FC signed Gambian defenders Emmanuel Gomez and Amadou Sanyang

Toronto FC bolstered its back line on Tuesday by signing Gambian defenders Emmanuel Gomez and Amadou Sanyang.

Gomez joins the Major League Soccer club from Samger FC of the Gambian first division, while Sanyang arrives from Real de Banjul FC.

"Both these players are great young talents and have a huge future ahead of them," Toronto GM Mo Johnston said in a news release.

"Gomez is very good in the air, has very good speed and is an outstanding young centre back. Amadou has great ability as well; he's very talented and will be a great asset for many years to come. We are delighted to have them both on board."

Johnston has been looking to sign new defenders after trading veteran Tyrone Marshall to the Seattle Sounders last month.

Gomez, 18, has been a regular for both Samger and the Gambian under-20 team. Sanyang, 17, was a member of the Gambian under-17 squad before graduating to the under-20 squad.

Because of his age, Sanyang will not become a full member of Toronto FC's senior squad until his 18th birthday. Until then, the defender can train with the senior team but will only be able to play for the team's youth squad.

Sanyang turns 18 on Aug. 1, and could make his debut that same day when Toronto FC visits the New England Revolution.

Sanyang is in Toronto and is training with the team, while Gomez will arrive in Canada following the completion of all international transfer and immigration procedures, according to the MLS club.

Toronto FC opens the 2009 MLS regular season on the road against the Kansas City Wizards on March 21.