New head coach Ryan Nelsen to leave QPR and join Toronto FC on Feb. 1

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Toronto FC\'s new head coach Ryan Nelsen talks with the media during the MLS team\'s media open day in Toronto on Tuesday January 22, 2013. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Chris Young

TORONTO – Toronto FC finally has a firm date for when Ryan Nelsen will officially take over as head coach.

Nelsen, who is currently an active defender with English Premier League side Queen’s Park Rangers, will officially join Toronto on Feb. 1. He plays his last game with QPR on Jan. 29th at home against Manchester City.

The 35-year-old New Zealand international was hired Jan. 8 by new Toronto president and general manager Kevin Payne while still under contract with QPR.

There was speculation Nelsen would have to finish the season in England, where QPR is in last place in the Premier League and fighting to avoid relegation to a lesser league.

The MLS season kicks off March 2, while QPR finishes its league schedule May 19.

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