Gary McAllister expected to land New York Red Bulls job

By SIMON EVANS
Published on 18/12/2012 00:00

GARY McAllister is in pole position to become the new coach of New York Red Bulls in the Major Soccer League, according to 
reports in the United States.

The former Scotland captain – who will turn 48 on Christmas Day – has been manager of Leeds United and Coventry City and was assistant to Gerard Houllier at Aston Villa during the 2010-11 season.

The Frenchman is now global sporting director at the Red Bulls, while ex-Scotland manager Andy Roxburgh is sporting director, and McAllister appears to be their first choice to take the team next season.

Under Roxburgh, the Red Bulls have been busy rebuilding, and yesterday they signed former Brazil international midfielder Juninho Pernambucano.

The 37-year-old joins New York from Brazilian club Vasco da Gama having previously played in the French league with Olympique Lyon.

A noted free-kick specialist, Juninho made 47 appearances for Brazil and was in their 2006 World Cup finals squad.

“Juninho is a world-class player who our Global Sporting Director, Gerard Houllier, and I have known and admired for many years,” said Roxburgh.

“Aside from being a top dead-ball specialist and a tremendous talent, Juninho is a fantastic professional both on and off the field. He is in great physical shape and we think he can make a positive impact for us in 2013.”

Roxburgh has been charged with overhauling the Red Bulls squad and last week Mexican defender Rafa Marquez was allowed to join Mexican club Leon.

With former France and Arsenal striker Thierry Henry in attack and Australian ex-Everton midfielder Tim Cahill, the 
Red Bulls hope to make a real push for their first MLS title next season.

The appointment of a new head coach will be central to their plans, after Swede Hans Backe left the club at the end of the MLS season.

If McAllister is appointed, he would become the sixth head coach – including two-time interim manager Richie Williams – since the Red Bulls franchise began in 2006.