3May/120
New York Red Bulls: Hans Backe, Let Ryan Meara Play for Ireland
Rookie goalkeeper Ryan Meara has had quite a season since being drafted 31st overall in the 2012 MLS SuperDraft.On Tuesday, his stock rose again, with a call-up to the Ireland under-21 national team. However, New York Red Bulls head coach Hans Backe decided he won’t let Meara go to a camp at the end of the month that culminates in a friendly against Denmark and a European Championship qualifier against Italy. Backe told Big Apple Soccer: I just told him we will turn it down. He wants to play; I don’t want [it], so that’s why. Backe’s decision in this situation was terrible. At the very least, he should back it up with more than just that he doesn’t want Meara to play. The friendly against Denmark is June 4, at the start of a weeklong international break in the MLS schedule. However, because it’s just an under-21 call-up, the Red Bulls aren’t required to release Meara to Noel King’s Irish team. Still, getting a rookie goalkeeper more experience at a high level would be good for both the player and the team. There are only benefits to be had from letting Meara play for Ireland. New York doesn’t have ...13Apr/120