Scottish central defender Chris Innes arrived in New York on Tuesday in preparation for a two week trial with the club. The 31 year old former Gretna player, made redundant due to the serious financial problems brought on by the SPL cellar dwellers, participated in team training on Wednesday. Innes was an integral part of a Gretna side that won three successive promotions, culminating in a place in the Scottish Premier League, and reached a Scottish Cup Final in 2006. Previous experiences in Innes’ footballing career include stops at Kilmarnock and Dundee United, in addition to brief loan stints at Falkirk and St. Mirren. Despite having several offers from clubs in England, Innes decided to follow the footsteps of two former Gretna teammates, Kenny Deuchar (Real Salt Lake) and Tony Caig (Houston Dynamo), across the Atlantic. Due to Innes’ unique situation, MLS’ April 15th transfer deadline will not affect the Red Bulls’ decision to sign him.
Reports out of Red Bulls’ training on Wednesday indicate the Innes is fit and had a very good performance. Playing mainly in central defense, he showed good ability in the air and was very vocal. He seems to be impressed with the organization as a whole, as well as the standard of play experienced in training. I would say that it is a good bet that Innes is signed, especially considering the Red Bulls’ desire for depth in defense.
So what does the impending Innes signing mean for the current members of the Red Bulls? I would say that it is a safe bet that Innes would take over the starting role in the middle of the three man backline, with Jeff Parke sliding out right to replace Chris Leitch. There is no doubt that adding a veteran defender will help stabilize and add depth to what is considered to be New York’s primary weakness.
