Now that the New York Red Bulls have added defender Armando to the team, it seems as good a time as any to take a look at their depth near the close of this sleepy winter transfer season.

To do this, we have to follow certain criteria and develop a base understanding of where the Red Bulls are. First off, let us be clear; however unlikely it may be, there is still time in the global market to pull the trigger on a quality talent acquisition. It is no secret that the Red Bulls continue to scour the footballing world for an attacking midfielder, with rumors of Ronald Vargas’ arrival peppering various news outlets. Head coach Mike Petke has also publicly stated his desire to upgrade in the fullback position where his team remains oddly similar to last year’s offering.

With 27 roster spots filled and three to go, anything is possible.

Next, you have to take the coach and his technical staff at their word. We will look at the depth of the team and insert the pieces of the squad in a basic 4-4-2 system. Petke’s “two blocks of four” may not have been sexy to watch, but it is hard to argue the efficiency of a tactic that produced the highest scoring tally in the league and helped break the Red Bulls’ near two decade dry run without silverware.

Finally, the team requires a deeper side than year’s past. With CONCACAF Champions League play, U.S. Open Cup competition and World Cup call-ups, we will scrutinize the roster and ask ‘Is this enough?’ In the end, we will break down the talent by section and comprise the best starting XI for 2014. Each position will be listed starting from the top ranking player on down.

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