September 25, 2012
WHO'S IN, WHO'S OUT
Barklage 1st choice at right back, Miller, Leite out

Brandon Barklage is ready to step in for Connor Lade at right back vs. Toronto on Saturday. Linda Cuttone/Sports Vue Images

By Kristian R. Dyer
BigAppleSoccer.com Contributing Editor

UPPER MONTCLAIR, N.J. – Relatively healthy, the Red Bulls are heading into the stretch run of the playoffs with some versatility, depth and very few injury concerns.

On Tuesday following training at Montclair State University, coach Hans Backe announced that Rafa Marquez was out for two weeks with a hamstring injury. In addition, left back Roy Miller will be sidelined yet again with a groin injury for this Saturday's home game against Toronto. Recently signed Brazilian center back Rodrigo Leite, the brother of Real Madrid’s Kaka, is also out with a left hamstring injury.

“Roy probably will start the beginning of next week,” head coach Hans Backe said. “I would guess Rodrigo probably at the end of this week, Friday, Saturday.”

After training, Miller was on the field in sneakers, running sprints and doing agility work.

The only other major adjustment to the Starting XI will be Brandon Barklage’s inclusion, following Connor Lade receiving two yellow cards in Saturday’s tie at New England. Prior to his 11-minute appearance against the Revolution, Barklage hadn’t played since July 28 when he suffered a strained right hamstring.

“Yeah I would say so, he should be the first choice,” Backe said of Barklage. “He’s been in some weeks now, played two reserve games, done well, so he is probably the first option.”

Kristian R. Dyer can be followed @KristianRDyer