Union could get Barnetta back for Red Bulls game
Midfielder Tranquillo Barnetta worked out for the second straight day for the Union and he hopes that his bothersome knee won't keep him out of Saturday's key Major League Soccer game against the host New York Red Bulls.
Midfielder Tranquillo Barnetta worked out for the second straight day for the Union and he hopes that his bothersome knee won't keep him out of Saturday's key Major League Soccer game against the host New York Red Bulls.
Barnetta announced Tuesday that he would return to play in Switzerland when his contract with the Union expires after this season. He missed a 1-1 draw at Toronto last week with the injury.
"It was good," Barnetta said about the last two days of working out. "I still have to take day by day and see how it goes."
Union coach Jim Curtin was optimistic about Barnetta's availability.
"I think he will play a role in the game," Curtin said.
According to Curtin, defender Josh Yaro, who had been sidelined with a concussion, has been cleared to play. Curtin, however, hinted that Ken Tribbett would remain as the center back against the Red Bulls, alongside Richie Marquez.
Midfielder Ilsinho, who has not played more than 23 minutes in any of the last four games, remains limited by plantar fasciitis.
"He had a shot today and we will see how he responds," Curtin said.
Curtin said the plan is for designated player Maurice Edu to travel with the team, but he wouldn't commit to playing him. Edu has missed all season with a stress fracture in his left leg.
The Union (11-11-9) have three games remaining. They are in fourth place in the Eastern Conference, where the top six teams will earn playoff berths. The Red Bulls are 13-9-9 and have clinched a playoff spot.
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