Atlanta United Vs New York Red Bulls: 5 key players to watch – Injury issues

ATLANTA, GA NOVEMBER 11: Atlanta United fans wave flags during the MLS Eastern Conference semifinal match between Atlanta United and NYCFC on November 11th, 2018 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, GA. Atlanta United FC defeated New York City FC by a score of 3 to 1 to advance in the playoffs. (Photo by Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GA NOVEMBER 11: Atlanta United fans wave flags during the MLS Eastern Conference semifinal match between Atlanta United and NYCFC on November 11th, 2018 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, GA. Atlanta United FC defeated New York City FC by a score of 3 to 1 to advance in the playoffs. (Photo by Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /
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NEW YORK, NEW YORK – November 4: Greg Garza #4 of Atlanta United in action during the New York City FC Vs Atlanta United FC MLS Eastern Conference Semifinal match at Yankee Stadium on November 4th, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Tim Clayton/Corbis via Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – November 4: Greg Garza #4 of Atlanta United in action during the New York City FC Vs Atlanta United FC MLS Eastern Conference Semifinal match at Yankee Stadium on November 4th, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Tim Clayton/Corbis via Getty Images) /

1. Greg Garza

Just like the other players in the post, it will be interesting to see what kind of effect Greg Garza can have in this Sunday’s match.

Garza appeared against Red Bulls back in May in that 3-1 loss. He played about two thirds of the game before drawing a straight red on a studs-up tackle. In the same play he landed on his shoulder, leading to shoulder surgery the next day. That surgery caused Garza to miss the September match against New York.

Garza’s lack of playing time against Red Bulls may be an advantage for Atlanta in this series. Whereas a slower, less equipped Chris McCann played in the September match against New York, Garza poses a different situation for Red Bulls.

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Garza is quick and confident on the ball. His passing skills also allow Atlanta to have a more fluid attack down the field. Ideally, this should help Atlanta break through Red Bulls’ high press. Thankfully Garza’s fitness is no longer a question, so he should have a positive influence on Sunday’s match.