The bye week has finally passed which means New York City FC will be returning to action. They will hit the road tomorrow to play against the win-less Philadelphia Union, and will match up against them again on Thursday the 16th in the Bronx.
The Union have allowed the most goals in the MLS so far, giving David Villa, who is expected to be back on the pitch, and company a great opportunity to get six points and move up in the standings.
Below are some players to keep an eye on for the matches.
A Fresh Start
After sending Rais Mbolhi home to “clear his head”, the Union will be starting 22 year-old rookie John McCarthy, who will be making his MLS debut. Although the team has been off to a rough start, McCarthy will allow the Union to reboot their season at home. He happens to also be from Philadelphia and will surely have family and friends in attendance. Will NYCFC be able to ruin the hometown kid's debut?
The Captain Returns
David Villa's nagging injury is something he will have to work with as the season progresses. The bye week came at a great time, allowing Villa to have extra days to heal. It was clear that his talents were missed against Sporting KC, and we all know that if he plays, Villa can be the most lethal man on the pitch.
Fernando Aristeguieta
Try saying that name three times fast.
Fernando is the one bright spot on a team that has only been able to score on the road. It's safe to say that the fans will be clamoring for a goal at home, in what will be an intense environment. Fernando already has three goals on the young season (that’s as many as NYCFC combined), but if the back-line is able to shut him down, the boys in blue will be able to come out of Philly with three points.
The next couple of games will be critical in keeping NYCFC’s inaugural season moving in the right direction. Expect some exciting action on the field and in the stands. It's time to show the Union how the Third Rail rolls.
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Posted by Andrew Singh
Andrew Singh is a Contributor and member of the Third Rail. Born and raised in New York, Andrew has a passion for many things such as music, traveling, and of course sports. He's recently become obsessed with fútbol, and enjoys chatting about NYCFC, and La Liga. Contact him via twitter @Singh_A87 if you want to get in touch and talk about The Third Rail, fútbol, or anything intellectually stimulating.
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