Red Bulls midfielder Gonzalo Veron was back in practice this week but his status for Sunday’s match against the Seattle Sounders is still unknown (photo credit: Scott Marsh)
Three things in life are certain: death, taxes, and the vagueness of the New York Red Bull front office.
The mantra for the New York Red Bulls during the off-season has been protracted periods of silence followed by vague, indecisive press releases.
Now that the season is underway, why should the Red Bulls front office be any different?
After being relatively quiet following March 11th’s home opener against the Colorado Rapids, the New York Red Bulls made a slew of announcements on Thursday. The most interesting of which being the green card status of British forward Bradley Wright-Phillips. Head Coach Jesse Marsch announced on Thursday Wright-Phillips had acquired his green card during the off-season, making him a domestic player for roster purposes.
What does Wright-Phillips becoming an American mean? The Red Bulls now have an open international roster spot. With Marsch stating New York could be looking to add defensive depth, this may mean the Red Bulls will look abroad for defensive reinforcements. Marsch also hinted the team is weighing its options in RBNY II, its USL division team. The news comes after center back Gideon Baah was ruled out for the 2017 season following another injury while right back Connor Lade is working his way back to full fitness.
A no-brainer for the front office, the Red Bulls have been looking to fill the vacant assistant coach position after Dennis Hamlett was promoted to sporting director. Marsch hinted the Red Bulls have found their man to partner with assistant coach Chris Armas, ultimately holding back from naming the newcomer until he has arrived in New York.
Oh the mystery is killing us.
Lastly, Veron has reportedly logged solid time during Wednesday’s training stint although it is unlikely he will feature in Sunday’s game against the Seattle Sounders. The Red Bulls will likely not want to strain Veron given CenturyLink Field, Seattle’s home stadium, is turf. With Marsch having stated earlier in the week they are looking to get Gulbrandsen up to speed quickly and, with his experience in Red Bull Salzburg, it is possible we will see him feature on Sunday.
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