Photo by ISI Photos
Claudio Reyna and Jozy Altidore trained on Friday and look like safe bets to be in the starting lineup for the Red Bulls when they play host to the Chicago Fire on Sunday at Giants Stadium. Seth Stammler, who hasn't trained all week due to a back injury, is doubtful.
Reyna's return is crucial for the Red Bulls against a Chicago Fire attack led by playmaker Cuauhtemoc Blanco. With Stammler unlikely to play, Reyna is expected to have the task of trying to neutralize Chicago's attacking midfielder.
Altidore, who missed two days of training with ingrown toe nails in both feet, trained on Friday and looks ready to play.
So what lineup might we see on Sunday? Here are the two best possibilities:
3-4-3
Altidore------------Angel------------Richards
Borman-----Reyna-----Sassano----Freeman
Goldthwaite--------Parke-------------Leitch
--------------------Conway-------------------
4-3-3
Altidore------------Angel-------------Richards
Borman-------------Reyna------------Freeman
Goldthwaite---Parke----Boyens---------Leitch
--------------------Conway-----------------------
So why Chris Leitch? Justin Mapp is way too quick for Boyens to deal and he has played well when used at right back.
The 3-4-3 is probably the best bet, but I I wouldn't be surprised to see a 4-3-3.
What do you think of Reyna and Altidore playing on Sunday? What do you think about the potential Red Bull lineups? Share your thoughts below.
