By Ryan Johnston, Sportsnet.ca

TORONTO -- It was far from much adu about nothing at BMO Field on Wednesday afternoon as Toronto FC midfielder Maurice Edu was named Major League Soccer’s 2007 Gatorade Rookie of the Year.

Edu, who is the only No. 1 pick in the MLS SuperDraft to ever win the honour, edged out Adam Christman of the New England Revolution and Dane Richards of the New York Red Bulls. The award finalists were determined in a poll of MLS players, general managers, coaches, referees and members of the media.

"It's a big moment, not just for myself, but also for Toronto FC," Edu said during a small press conference at BMO Field.

The award culminates a meteoric first season for the University of Maryland product. The defensive-minded midfielder was third on the team in minutes played (2,180) and second in both goals (four) and shots on goal (24).

Edu also earned his first international cap with the US national team in an October friendly against Switzerland.

"Maurice held his own throughout the season, established himself, scoring goals from midfield, broke into the national team and now, the hard part comes because the second year is always the hardest, and hopefully he can sustain it," praised Toronto FC manager Mo Johnston.

However, the personal accolades may prove detrimental for Johnston, who on occasion has revealed that the play of Edu is on the radar of a handful of teams in England. During a July friendly in Toronto against Premiership opponent Aston Villa, opposition manager Martin O’Neill commented post-match on how the talented midfielder would be a welcome addition to his own squad.

"I am supposed to go over there (England) in the off-season, but I am not sure if it is going to work out or not, we'll see," he said of the Villa opportunity.

The recognition as the league's top rookie will go a long way in occupying the 21-year-old's calendar this winter, as US national team camps and Olympic camps are certain invites for the top rookie, and may prevent him from training with Villa.

"If there is any kind of conflict (with Aston Villa), obviously I would go with the national team."

While Johnston fully supports Edu's development on both club and country levels, the Scotsman will be tested next summer as Edu has kept no secrets about his desire to play for the US at the Beijing Olympic Games.

"That would be huge for me. It would be the largest stage I have ever played on and again, something I have always wanted to do."

With the Summer Games set for August of next year, Edu might be missing from the TFC midfield as a result. But all forecasting aside, Edu has also kept no secrets about his desire to perform as a member of Toronto FC.

"I am really happy that I am here in Toronto, I have enjoyed every moment of the season," he said.