BWP is now a DP.
The New York Red Bulls announced on Wednesday morning that they have signed 2014 MLS Golden Boot winner Bradley Wright-Phillips to a Designated Player deal. The announcement comes just two days after Thierry Henry's announced departure from the club freed up a DP slot, and on the heels of a remarkable 27-goal regular season for Wright-Phillips that tied the MLS all-time single season scoring record. He also scored four goals in the MLS Cup Playoffs, presented by AT&T.
"Following his outstanding performances in 2014, which produced 31 goals in all competitions, the club has decided to make Bradley Wright-Phillips a MLS Designated Player," said New York Red Bulls sporting director Andy Roxburgh in a statement. "Bradley is not only a prolific goalscorer, he is an excellent professional and a great team player who will be a big asset to the club in the coming seasons."
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Wright-Phillips, 29, was one of the major revelations of the MLS campaign. He lit up scoreboards across the league, making it onto the MLS All-Star team and helping guide New York to the Eastern Conference Championship vs. the New England Revolution.
He missed out on the decisive leg of that series due to yellow-card accumulation, and the Red Bulls were subsequently eliminated in the 2-2 draw at Gillette Stadium.
Aside from his goals, the Englishman has been hailed by head coach Mike Petke and teammates alike throughout the season for his unselfish attitude and hardworking mentality. Wright-Phillips made 29 starts in 32 regular season appearances in 2014.
He is just the latest in a string of Designated Players in the club's history, joining the likes of Henry, Tim Cahill, Rafa Marquez and Juan Pablo Angel.
