New York Red Bulls defender Damien Perrinelle returned to practice Thursday after he being sidelines seven months with a torn ACL.

Perrinelle suffered his injury last November during an Eastern Conference semifinal match against D.C. United. The center back has been recovering in France, but now he's back with the team and participating in practices.

"For me, it was like a story with no ending last year," Perrinelle said. "It was hard to swallow. I'm glad to be back here with the team."

Perrinelle joined the Red Bulls in 2014 and began his first full season as the club's starting center back in 2015. Perrinelle was a key part of the Red Bulls defense that allowed the sixth fewest goals during the 2015 MLS regular season.

Perrinelle, known for his physical play, tied for the second highest total in the league with 11 yellow cards in 28 appearances.

With Perrinelle back on the practice field, Red Bulls coach Jesse Marsch is anticipating his return.

"We missed his energy and having him around," Marsch said. "He'll bring clarity and leadership to how we'll play. I think he'll help a lot and strengthen our back line in every way."

Marsch said there's no timetable for Perrinelle's return, but he expects Perrinelle to be ready in 2-4 weeks. The Red Bulls' next game is June 19 against the Seattle Sounders.

Daniel Falkenheim may be reached at DFalkenheim@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @Thefalkon. Find NJ.com on Facebook.