IMAGE, MATT KREMKAU FOR EMPIRE OF SOCCER

by DAVE MARTINEZ

Gonzalo Veron has been one of the brightest stars for the New York Red Bulls this preseason.

Unfortunately for Red Bull fans, they may have to a little while to see why.

Veron, New York’s highly touted Designated Player, suffered a hamstring injury against the Jacksonville Armada on Saturday night. While he has not received an MRI detailing the gravity of the injury just yet, sources tell EoS he could miss 1-3 weeks of action.

The injury is untimely at best, especially considering Veron’s recent form. The Argentine firecracker shined throughout New York’s 5-1 win over Jacksonville, scoring a hat trick to propel the Red Bulls well past the Armada. In fact, his stellar combination play with Bradley Wright-Phillips all preseason long has contributed to New York’s tactical stance, where head coach Jesse Marsch has aligned the club in a 4-2-2-2 formation for much of the winter.

His injury will likely re-open the door for the displaced Mike Grella to return to the team’s starting XI. Grella enjoyed a career year in 2015, featuring in 33 matches, earning 30 starts and notching nine goals and seven assists on the season.

New York opens their season in six days, hosting Toronto FC at Red Bull Arena.

UPDATE: (11:30 A.M.) The New York Red Bulls released a statement on the condition of Veron:

“New York Red Bulls forward Gonzalo Veron suffered a potential hamstring injury in the 5-1 victory over Jacksonville Armada FC Saturday evening in Jacksonville. Veron scored a hat trick before leaving the game. For precautionary reasons, Veron will undergo a MRI later today. His playing status will be updated later in the week.”