New York Red Bulls have been able to enjoy the pace of Shaun Wright Phillips to the maximum in recent seasons. Manager Jesse Marsch claims that the attitude of the former Chelsea winger has been first class.

Some players are criticised for not showing the 100% commitment to the MLS after having just joined from the European league. Since European football is significantly more competitive, the MLS has been seen as a retirement party for the ageing superstars. However, Wright Phillips has not been taking a similar opinion since joining New York Red Bulls.

The English winger joined the club in 2015 and has since made 12 appearances for the team. The MLS is preparing for the 2016 season with New York Red Bulls taking onJacksonville Armada FC in a pre-season friendly. The match will take place on February 27 and manager Marsch is ready to give Wright Phillips an important run in the team. This will help him build some fitness ahead of the new campaign. A Premier League winner with Chelsea, the 34-year-old has also played for clubs like QPR and Manchester City. The player says that he is already looking forward to the start of the campaign.

The club open the new season with a home game against Toronto FC. “He’s looked sharper and sharper, fitter and fitter every day, so the goal is to get him ready by the opening weekend and I’m hopeful that Saturday, he’s still feeling well and that we can maybe look to give him 10-15 minutes.” he told Plainsailing.com

“First and foremost, I just want to get through the game with no injuries, or nothing reoccurring and get as many touches on the ball as I can, and create a few chances for myself and my teammates,” said the manager of New York Red Bulls.