32 games played and 2729 minutes later, Scott Sutter’s first season in MLS has come to a close. The fullback, acquired back in March, came to Orlando having played almost a full season in the Swiss League with BSC Young Boys. Despite that, Sutter has played the second most minutes of any Orlando City player and the most out of any field player. Since July of 2016, the right back has been playing consistently through two separate seasons. Now with this year having come to a close, Sutter reflected on his time so far in Orlando.
“For me, on a personal note, I’ve loved it,” Sutter said after training last Wednesday, “I’ve enjoyed kind of every minute of it other than, obviously, the defeats. But, you know, just the transition to a new team, to a new city, it’s been great for me. I’ve really, really enjoyed being here and transition and how easy everyone’s made it for me. So, I feel right at home and I already can’t wait for next season.”
While his one goal and four assists don’t necessarily jump off the page, Sutter has been one of the most consistent players for the Lions this season. The 31-year-old has been a much needed addition to the Lions backline in 2017 and hopes to be a big part of the team moving into next season.
With his 13 years of playing experience playing in the Swiss League, Champions League, Europa League and internationally with Switzerland, Sutter spoke from his vast experience about the Lions and where the team can improve as they strive to come back better next year.
“I think we need to be more dominant of opponents,” he said, “I think we need to really dictate play, not just at home but also away. Keep more of the ball. I think even in the earlier games, where we were getting results, we didn’t have as much possession as we would like to a lot of the times. A couple of results, we kinda got away with it possession-wise, where we were struggling to keep hold of the ball, and we kind of just clawed over the line. So, I’d like to see us finish more games out confidently with a bit more dominance.”
Through it all, Sutter is confident with the team and the coaching staff moving forward into 2018 and is looking forward to compete for the Lions next season, after getting a few weeks of much deserved rest.
“I think we have got the players already, and I think, with the coaching staff behind us and maybe a couple of additions in the offseason, I think we will definitely, definitely have that.”
