Photo by Howard C. Smith/ISIphotos.com
By FRANCO PANIZO
American players are not the only ones going abroad for training stints during the MLS offseason.
In an effort to keep sharp and maintain fitness, Rafael Marquez has begun practicing with Barcelona B. The New York Red Bulls defender had his first training session with the second team of his former club on Thursday morning, and he practiced alongside compatriot Jonathan Dos Santos, among others.
Marquez, who endured a heavily-scrutinized season in 2011, is expected to return to New York in the coming weeks.
Here are more notes from around MLS:
RED BULLS ACQUIRE NJ NATIVE BORRAJO
The New York Red Bulls strengthened its defensive corps on Thursday, signing defender Jonathan Borrajo. The 24-year-old fullback, who was born in Clifton, New Jersey, last played for Norwegian club Hamarkameratene, making 36 appearances during his year-and-a-half stay. Prior to signing with Hamarkameratene, Borrajo played for George Mason University for four years.
Red Bulls general manager and Sporting Director Erik Soler said he expects Borrajo to compete for a starting spot this season.
REVOLUTION ADDS TO ITS COACHING STAFF
The New England Revolution continued its transformation under new head coach Jay Heaps, as it signed two new coaches to its staff on Thursday.
Jay Miller, a former talent evaluator at the collegiate levels and U.S. Soccer, was added as an assistant coach while former Revolution defender Nick Downing was hired as the club's first strength and conditioning coach.
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What do you think of Marquez training with Barcelona B? Happy to see a NJ native signed by the Red Bulls? Do you like Miller being appointed as an assistant coach for the Revs?
Share your thoughts below.