New York Red Bulls forward Fredrik Gulbrandsen was subbed on late in Saturday's 1-0 victory over Colorado Rapids less than 24 hours after landing in the country.
Head Coach Jesse Marsch said that they hope to get the Norwegian international "going as quickly as possible."
Gulbrandsen began his professional career with his hometown team, Lillestrøm in Norway, in 2008. In 2013 he transferred to Molde, also in Norway, and helped the team to the league double in 2014 with 14 goals in 28 matches.
Gulbrandsen, who joined New York on loan from FC Red Bull Salzburg, knows a little bit about how New York trains, Marsch said.
The striker moved to Salzburg in 2016, and in his first season had two goals and an assist in nine league appearances. He has also played for Salzburg in UEFA Champions League qualification, Europa League, and the Austrian Cup.
"We went through some things today and there’s a lot of similarities between what Salzburg does and what we do," the head coach said.
Marsch said they know Gulbrandsen will bring his work ethic and that "he is a smart player and understands the system."
Gulbrandsen came on for Bradley Wright-Phillips in the 88th minute on Saturday, quickly making his MLS debut.
"I think we play very similar to the way Salzburg does, so I think it will be easier for me to develop here and to get into the team," Gulbrandsen said following his first minutes. "I'm looking forward to getting to know all the guys and the club and looking forward to playing more."
Gulbrandsen made his international debut for Norway in August 2014 in a friendly against the United Arab Emirates. He has three senior appearances, including one in UEFA Euro 2016 qualifying.
"I think he’ll bring some quality in the final third," Marsch said.
