UPPER MONTCLAIR, N.J. – Thierry Henry may not be making his return against Chivas USA, after all.
Henry’s status for the New York Red Bulls’ home game on Wednesday against the Goats is up in the air after being unable to train on Monday morning because of rainy conditions. Manager Hans Backe had mentioned last week that he expected his star striker to start the match, but he was noncommittal as to whether the Frenchman would play following Monday’s regeneration practice.
“Unfortunately with the weather, too much water on the pitch, we couldn’t test Thierry,” Backe told reporters after the training session. “We’ll do that tomorrow, so I can’t say yes or no.”
Marquez, Conde available
While Henry’s status for the Chivas USA game is still unknown, Wilman Conde and Rafa Marquez will be available for selection, according to Backe.
Backe believes both will be able to dress for the game at Red Bull Arena, but he does not think Conde will be able to start. Conde has not played for the Red Bulls since late March due to a groin injury.
As for Marquez, Backe shed some light as to why the Mexican Designated Player sat out of this past weekend’s 2-1 win over the Montreal Impact after initially labeling the Achilles knock "soft."
“It’s frustrating as always when you have Achilles or ankle injuries with the pain you have,” Backe said. “But it’s definitely not helping with the turf, too, on the worst pitch worldwide probably in Montreal.”
Solli to return to training
The Red Bulls will get some more good news on the injury front on Tuesday, as Jan Gunnar Solli is expected to return to the practice field. Solli has been nursing a thigh knock in recent days.
“Solli will train tomorrow, but I don’t count him for Wednesday,” Backe said. “It’s too early.”
Lade impressing
One of the surprises in the Red Bulls’ victory over the Impact was rookie Connor Lade playing as a left midfielder in a 4-2-3-1 formation. Normally a defender, Lade was active on both sides of the ball and Backe came away impressed.
“He’s a hard worker, Connor,” Backe said. “He can play left back or wide left, he will always do a phenomenal job, great attitude. It’s just some small, small details for him to adapt tactically wise probably in possession, but he’s adapting very quick. He surprised me.”
