With an eye toward the Aug. 15 transfer window – and perhaps toward the possible departure of disgruntled all-star midfielder Amado Guevara – the Red Bulls are on the verge of adding speedy Canadian midfielder Josh Simpson.
Despite just turning 23 this month, the left-footed winger has already made 13 appearances for Canada, including three in last year’s Gold Cup. He signed with Millwall of the English Premier League and played in 33 games in 2004-05, including two in the UEFA Cup, but the team was relegated and a knee injury limited Simpson to 15 games, none after Jan. 2.
With Millwall relegated again, the 6-foot, 170-pounder will be let go on a free transfer. The Red Bulls plan to bring him in this week, although he won’t be eligible to play until the transfer window opens. As a green card holder, he won’t take up a Senior International spot, two of which the team has open.
“He wants to be here. The money’s not an issue. We’re high to sign him, so I’m comfortable,” said coach Mo Johnston. “He can defend, he’s very quick, he goes at people. He’s exciting. He creates a lot of problems, similar to a (Chicago’s) Justin Mapp, but more direct. He’s good on the ball.”