The New York Red Bulls' offseason is suddenly not looking so bad. The latest piece of positive news comes in the form of Luke Rodgers receiving his long-delayed visa, according to the team website.
Forward Luke Rodgers, whose arrival to preseason camp was delayed due to immigration issues, had his U.S. visa approved. It is unclear when Rodgers will join the team in Mexico, but we’re happy to say that he will be a Red Bull in 2012.
This is a pretty significant development for both parties. Red Bulls coach Hans Backe had recently expressed some doubt that Rodgers' visa situation would ever be resolved.
If Rodgers had been unable to join the team, the Red Bulls would have been without one of their most consistent scorers from the 2011 season. Rodgers was the Red Bulls' second leading scorer with nine goals, despite playing in just 23 matches. With Rodgers, the Red Bulls' attack suddenly looks quite strong, even if Juan Agudelo is transferred.
For more on the Rodgers' situation, be sure to check out Red Bulls blog Once a Metro.