MLS Red Bull New York

Red Bull New York Appoints John Harkes Assistant Coach

Published on July 31, 2006 under Major League Soccer (MLS)
Red Bull New York News Release


SECAUCUS, NJ (Monday, July 31, 2006) - Red Bull New York announced today that former U.S. Men's National Team standout John Harkes has been named Assistant Coach.

Harkes, a Kearny, NJ native, made 90 appearances with the U.S. Team from 1987-1999 and was a starting midfielder in both the 1990 and 1994 FIFA World Cups. A veteran of 167 Major League Soccer matches, Harkes helped lead D.C. United to back-to-back MLS Cup championships in 1996 and 1997, while playing for current Red Bulls head coach Bruce Arena. He was elected to the National Soccer Hall of Fame in 2005.

"John has obviously had a tremendous playing career and now has expressed a strong desire to pursue a career in coaching," said Sporting Director and Head Coach of Red Bull New York Bruce Arena. "We believe his background and his desire make him a perfect fit in our organization."

Harkes also played under Arena at the University of Virginia from 1985-1987.

"I am happy to be joining a first class organization and I am looking forward to working with Bruce and the rest of the staff at Red Bull New York," said Harkes. "On a personal note, it's great to be coming home to New Jersey and returning to the community that I grew up in and know so well."

In addition to his international and MLS experience, Harkes spent seven seasons playing with four different clubs in England from 1990-1996 and 1998 (Sheffield Wednesday '90-'93, Derby County '94-'95, West Ham United '95-'96 and on-loan to Nottingham Forest '98). Since retiring, Harkes has worked as the Youth Developmental Director for D.C. United, as a soccer commentator for Comcast SportsNet and a color commentator for ESPN and ABC during the 2006 FIFA World Cup.

Harkes becomes the fourth member of the Red Bulls coaching staff, joining current interim head coach Richie Williams and goalkeeper coach Des McAleenan, who will remain with the club as assistants once Arena assumes his head coaching post on August 12.

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