He's the guy that we just can't get away from. Hell, he's the guy that the New York Red Bulls can't get away from. He's Rafael Marquez and he's been the most talked about player in MLS this season. That's for a number of reasons. First, he's the former captain of the Mexican national team. Two, he's one of the most highly paid players in MLS. Three, he plays in New York, the country's media market. Four, his team has gone from title favorite to barely scraping their way into the playoffs. Five, he's been downright lazy, has publicly called out teammates and if anyone was going to be blamed for the Red Bulls' struggles it would be him.
FC Dallas Vs. New York Red Bulls, MLS Cup Playoffs 2011: Rafa Marquez Back In The Spotlight
Naturally, as we head into the playoffs, the spotlight is back in Marquez. He’s been moved from the defense to the midfield, but his effort has only been marginally better. While he’s flashed his incredible ability with a few pinpoint passes and the occasional strong tackle, he’s also watched attackers run right by him and tracking back has been treated as more of an optional task.
Only a year ago, Marquez was responsible for a key playoff goal when he lost his mark. It led to the Red Bulls' playoff ouster and if he doesn't show better effort and discipline this season, New York well end up out on the golf course earlier than they hoped. David Ferreira is still out with an injury, but FC Dallas has a MVP candidate in Brek Shea who Marquez will be called upon to help with.
Shea will be out on the left for Dallas, where Jan Gunnar Solli and Dane Richards will be charged with trying to slow him. That's a bit much to ask from those two, meaning they will need help from the defensive midfield. That means Marquez, who will have to slide over and put in some defensive work or the Red Bulls will fall victim to Shea and Co. It's time, Rafa. If you don't step up now then your entire season, and your team's, will be a massive disappointment.
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