:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/48433957/usa-today-8889486.0.jpg)
Like most frantic last-minute holiday shoppers, the New York Red Bulls are in need of gifts, but not from Walmart and other department stores. The only difference is that the New Jersey based soccer club has 3 months to shop for new assets. Here are some areas for the Red Bulls to add to.
Play making Defender
Considering that Matt Miazga may take his stardom to England, the Red Bulls are thin on play making defenders. Damien Perrinelle would be the only offensive defender left on the soccer club's roster. He recorded 16 total shots in 2015, second to Miazga's 26. A solid addition to the Red Bulls' developing defense core, could be Robbie Rogers of the LA Galaxy. LA is currently pursuing AS Roma's Ashley Cole, to take standout defender Omar Gonzalez's' spot in the lineup. Rogers scored a goal and tallied 3 assists in Hollywood last season. His aggressiveness would fit well with the Red Bulls' defenders, as he is a good cross setter and could fill in nicely at the wing.
Defensive Midfielder
The Red Bulls' offensive intensity is controlled by their midfield, specifically captain Dax McCarty and Sacha Klejsta. They are the once who usually set the plays for New York. However, the Red Bulls do lack depth in midfielders that can play both offensively and defensively. McCarty is an excellent example of this. D.C. United's Chris Rolfe would be a nice addition to an already impressive midfield. Rolfe started all but 3 games for DC this past season. He is an offensive contributor as well, scoring 10 goals and assisting on 4. Rolfe likes to fill in the middle position on the floor, and has a powerful boot defensively. He also is an underrated slide tackler. Overall, Rolfe would fit nicely as a defensive midfielder for the Red Bulls.
Strong Backup Goalkeepers
Louis Robles is one of the best goalkeepers in the MLS. Having said this, his backups will not see some action in the net unless he has a serious injury. Kyle Reynish has been the primary backup for Robles. Reynish was subbed in the Red Bulls' upset over Chelsea in July, allowing one goal 75 minutes in. For the most part, he stopped shots left and right. This trend could continue on into next season if the team resigns him.