BRADENTON, Fla. – When the New York Red Bulls released the team’s initial preseason trialist list three weeks ago, Mike Grella’s name stuck out above the others.
After five years abroad, most notably as a member of storied English side Leeds United, and a short stint with the NASL’s Carolina RailHawks, the Long Island product turned down preseason offers from other clubs to work towards a contract with his hometown side.
“There couldn’t be a better place than New York,” Grella told NewYorkRedBulls.com. “I couldn’t be more excited about it. There were some clubs in MLS and always options to go back to Europe but I got married a year and a half ago and have a three-month-old baby boy right now so we knew where we wanted to be.”
The extra motivation suited the 28-year-old well, shining with highlight reel goals and strong play out wide during the team’s first camp stint in Orlando.
“Mike has come in here fit, with a great mentality and shown that he’s ready to establish himself,” said head coach Jesse Marsch. “I think he fits what we’re trying to do really well – he can cover a lot of ground, he’s athletic and he’s been good around the goal. As much as there’s been other pieces that have been great, he’s just shown some quality around the goal, whether in training in games seems to score almost every day.
“There are a lot of positives, we’re excited to have Mike with us and I think he’s just as excited to be here.”
While Grella says his preferred position is to play as a main or withdrawn striker, he admits his versatility to play across the attack helped him earn a contract.
“I think I’m able to play any of the four positions equally. I’m very happy to play anywhere in the attack and anywhere I can be of use for the team. I think my flexibility in those areas is good.”
Grella joins reigning 2014 MLS Golden Boot winner Bradley Wright-Phillips as the only two forwards under contract, so while he produce out wide, if he continues his form in front of goal, he may well find more time in his desired spot.
“I feel pretty sharp, my finishing has been pretty good and I’m getting fitter every day. I’m happy where that’s at right now because there’s room for more improvement in the next two weeks.”
Fans will have their first chance to see Grella suit up for the Red Bulls Wednesday as the team takes on Danish side HB Køge in the opening match of the IMG Suncoast Pro Classic at 5pm ET live on NewYorkRedBulls.com.
