UPPER MONTCLAIR, N.J. – New York Red Bulls manager Hans Backe has seen enough of Lloyd Sam, and he believes the winger can help the club’s cause in their quest for an MLS Cup.
Following Tuesday morning’s practice, Backe confirmed that the Red Bulls will try and sign Sam, the 27-year-old winger who has spent the last week trialing with New York after having last played for Notts County.
“We will have a chat today and tomorrow with him about contract and things like that,” Backe told reporters. “If everything looks good, we will try to sign him.”
Sam took part in the Red Bulls’ 3-1 loss to D.C. United in Reserve League action on Monday, and Backe said assistant coach Mike Petke thought the English midfielder fared well in his first real competitive action since joining the club.
Now, New York will try and work out a deal with Sam and the hope for Backe is that a contract can be agreed upon to add some much-needed width to the Red Bulls.
“In this league, it’s very difficult just to buy a specialist,” Backe said. “You need to buy versatile players in this league because of the salary cap and things like that, so he can play hopefully two or three different positions, but he can definitely play in two positions.”
Sam was at training on Tuesday, but declined to comment to the media.
Franco Panizo covers the New York Red Bulls for MLSsoccer.com. He can be reached at Franco8813@gmail.com.
