Thierry Henry’s name is still whispered about the halls of Red Bull Arena, and apparently, he is still talking about the team as well.

The French legend is still following the progress of the Red Bulls, as evidenced in a text exchange with star Red Bulls midfielder, Lloyd Sam.

“We were texting after the game against NYC,” Sam told reporters at training this week. “He was just saying he thought I was the man of the match. Actually, that’s what he texted me. That’s not me saying it! That’s what he said.

“He’s still watching the game. We talk after most games. He still knows what’s going on.”

Henry contributed to the Red Bulls’ first ever major trophy victory, the Supporters’ Shield, in 2013. He left last season guiding the club towards the Eastern Conference Finals.

Since his departure, Sam has taken over many of the roles of his former teammate, coming in second to Bradley Wright-Phillips on the team scoring chart (three goals) and tied for the team lead in assists (three).

ANOTHER ZUBAR SETBACK

Just when it looked as if Ronald Zubar would return to action, his health has taken a turn for the worse.

The French defender was absent from training Wednesday after suffering an undisclosed injury.

“He took a day to see a specialist. We are kind of just figuring where we are headed with that,” head coach Jesse Marsch told reporters. “There is continued hope but there have been little setbacks where we are not making the progress we like. We have been forced to come up with creative solutions.”

Zubar, 29, has been out of action since picking up a hamstring injury in the 77th minute of the team’s opening day encounter against Sporting KC. Since, he has been a week-to-week question mark on defense. This week was no different. Zubar was expected to see minutes against NYCFC, but those plans changed.

Zubar’s absence puts New York in a precarious position. Matt Miazga has joined the U.S. Men’s U-20 National Team for the U-20 World Cup in New Zealand, leaving the club to rely on little-tested Karl Ouimette at centerback, joining stalwart Damien Perrinelle.

TRANSFER FODDER: JAMES McCLEAN

Irish international Jame McClean has continued to be linked to the Red Bulls. If the reports are true, Marsch was not ready to tip his hand.

“We aren’t going to comment on any speculation at this point,” he said.