Columbus Crew Vs New York Red Bulls: 3 things to watch for – Battle of the Titans
1. Any reason to adjust?
After picking up a win against Atlanta United, should the New York Red Bulls even consider a change to their starting XI? The Red Bulls owe their three points to Florian Valot, who is continuing his great form after being sidelined for two seasons due to ACL surgeries. Valot’s return fills a spot left by the departure of Josh Sims and provides a spark on the right side of the field that the team needed in 2019.
Chris Armas’ team was excellent, but they also pushed hard, as is required in the Red Bulls system. The Red Bulls pressed Atlanta for the majority of the match. That will have taken a toll on them physically. Can they hold up just days later against another high-level Eastern opponent?
Tom Barlow is likely to start again with Brian White not fully fit. The center-back pairing of Aaron Long and Amro Tarek proved strong, at least enough to keep Atlanta off the scoresheet. It seems as though Tim Parker has lost his starting spot, though Armas could rotate at the position if he so feels sit.
The Columbus Crew and Caleb Porter also have options, especially if Pedro Santos returns to fitness following a minor injury. Between Santos, Youness Mokhtar and Luis Diaz, Porter has decisions to make as to who plays on the flanks.
Next. MLS is Back: Top 5 performances from Matchday One. dark
Given the hectic schedule of the tournament, it is vital that managers cleverly manage their squads. Could that lead to rotation on Thursday night?