The New York Red Bulls’ Bradley Wright-Phillips, has denied any knowledge of a possible loan move to Premier League side, AFC Bournemouth.
The New York Red Bulls’ Bradley Wright-Phillips has been one of the most prolific strikes in all of Major League Soccer since making the move across the pond in 2013. The 30-year-old has scored an impressive 44 goals over the past two seasons and has helped lead his club to the Eastern Conference finals for the second consecutive season.
As a result of his stellar form, rumors from around the globe have been sparked about a possible loan move back to the Premier League for the Englishman. The 2014 MLS Golden Boot winner, has a plethora of experience playing in England, featuring for the likes of Manchester City, Southampton, Plymouth Argyle, Charlton Athletic, and Brentford.
However, in a recent interview with MLSSoccer.com, Wright-Phillips denied recent reports about a potential loan move to AFC Bournemouth, suggesting he hasn’t heard anything.
"“I don’t know anything about it,” he said after the Red Bulls’ training session on Friday.”"
Recently named MLS Coach of the Year, Jesse Marsch, also claimed not to know anything about a possible loan move for his star striker.
"I haven’t even spoken with Brad or Ali [Curtis, Red Bulls sporting director] about that, so that may give you some indication,” Marsch said. “I’m not surprised that there are teams that are interested in him, but that hasn’t even been part of the discussion. We’ve all been focused on [Sunday’s match]."
The New York Red Bulls are looking to get back to the MLS Cup final for the first time since 2008, when they host the Columbus Crew in the second leg of the Eastern Conference final on Sunday night at 5 p.m. ET. They fell in the first leg 2-0 last Sunday at Mapfre Stadium, and will need Wright-Phillips to be at his best to overcome the deficit.
Despite drawing 3-3 against a strong Everton side on Saturday, Bournemouth sit in 18th spot with 10 points after 14 games. Wright-Phillips could certainly help out the relegation contenders in the second half of the Premier League season, but it is unlikely that the Red Bulls will want to risk the Englishman getting injured while out on a loan stint.