New York Red Bulls: Can Wright-Phillips surpass 2014 season numbers?

The New York Red Bulls are blessed with the continued contributions of Bradley Wright-Phillips. Might he even surpass his monster 2014 season?

Towards the end of 2013, The New York Red Bulls brought in Bradley Wright-Phillips. But in his first handful of appearances, the transfer from Charlton didn’t exactly light it up, though the potential was encouraging.In 2013, Wright-Phillips scored once in 7 regular season appearances.

The beginning of 2014 was horrid for both the New York Red Bulls and BWP. Wright-Phillips scored in the season opener, but subsequently went on a 6 game goal drought.

The team failed to win a game for a month and change, until a home fixture against the Houston Dynamo. Mike Petke’s team needed a spark desperately, and BWP delivered with a hat-trick. From that game on he never looked back, scoring 11 goals in his next 10 games.

In his first full-length MLS season, BWP scored 27 goals which tied him with Roy Lassiter and Chris Wondolowski for the most goals in a season. He won the Golden Boot, scored 4 playoff goals, but contributed just 2 assists.

Is it possible for BWP?

RED BULL ARENA, HARRISON, NEW JERSEY, UNITED STATES – 2018/05/05: Bradley Wright-Phillips (99) of New York Red Bulls celebrates scoring goal during regular MLS game against NYCFC at Red Bull Arena Red Bulls won 4 – 0. (Photo by Lev Radin/Pacific Press/LightRocket via Getty Images) /

With all that being said, 9 games into 2018 and BWP already has 6 goals and 5 assists. At this current rate, it’s conceivable Wright-Phillips could finish the season with 20-24 goals and 16-20 assists.

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Wright-Phillips scored 6 goals in 2018, third in MLS, but is right behind players with plenty more minutes played. While that stat isn’t surprising, we are seeing another side to his game. With 24 games left on the schedule, BWP is already on 5 assists, 2 shy of his career high set in 2015.

Bradley Wright-Phillips also showed his playmaking ability in CONCACAF Champions League. In 6 games, he scored 3 goals, and added 3 highly difficult assists.

Even at age 33, Wright-Phillips’ game is still continuing to evolve. His dynamic start to 2018 makes one wonder if BWP’s potent first 4 seasons was just a precursor to something greater?

After their 3-0 win over Minnesota, Jesse Marsch mulled over just how good Bradley is.

"“the best player to ever play in this league, and the best goal-scorer to play in this league.”"

And of course, Wright-Phillips was humble in his response, but still hinted at his unwavering hunger for more.

"“Jesse’s very kind, he’s a kind man. I don’t know. I’d rather not talk about it. My career isn’t done here, you know?”"

Fast-forward to the New York Red Bulls 2-1 win vs Colorado on Saturday, and the Englishman added yet another world-class assist. Much to his dismay, Bradley Wright-Phillips was subbed off in the 67th minute. Post-game Jesse Marsch was asked about his substitutions.

"it’s not a knock against Brad or Flo, but we got to find ways to use our whole team to make sure we do whatever it takes to get results… Brad wasn’t happy with me taking him off, but you know, we’re good, the water bottle paid the price for that."

Next: MLS: Top 5 Goals From Matchweek 10

Even on the road at altitude with a 2 goal advantage, BWP still wanted to play every minute and contribute. It’s a testament to his confidence at the moment, he just feels like he can score or assist at any moment. And it may not be much of a surprise to many, but Bradley Wright-Phillips might be on his way to his best year yet.

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