As recently as a week ago, the New York Red Bulls were among the more inactive teams during the off-season. How quickly things can change. The Red Bulls made the long-rumored signings of Englishman Luke Rogers and Norwegian midfielder Jan Gunnar Solli official, inking both two multi-year contracts in the past two days. They also finalized their Homegrown Player contract with Matt Kassel, another player who's been linked with the Red Bulls for quite some time.
New York Red Bulls Sign Luke Rogers, Jan Gunnar Solli
Up until the trio of signings, the Red Bulls had limited themselves to adding players through the MLS SuperDraft, but had cut ties with last year's leading scorer, Juan Pablo Angel. Rogers, a forward, won't likely replace Angel's production, but should provide an interesting piece to coach Hans Backe's arsenal. Rogers, who has spent most of his career in the lower rungs of the English pyramid, is known mainly for his speed.
“Our head coach Hans knows Luke very well from his days coaching at Notts County and we believe he will immediately compete for a starting position,” said Red Bull New York General Manager and Sporting Director Erik Soler. “He has a very good work ethic and provides pace and strength to our front line.”
Solli is also expected to compete for a starting spot, likely as a defensive midfielder but possibly as a defender. He has 40 caps for the Norwegian National Team and most recently played for SK Brann of the Norwegian Premier League.
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