Sports

Red Bulls acquire former U.S. starter Bobby Convey

The Red Bulls acquired former U.S. national team midfielder Bobby Convey and a second-round pick (No. 21 overall) from Toronto FC for their own first-round selection (No. 15) and a 2016 third-round pick.

“Bobby is a very experienced player who we believe can make an immediate impact on our squad,” Red Bulls Sporting Director Andy Roxburgh said. “We have been looking at him for some time and he will add quality on the flanks. Bobby’s technical ability will certainly provide us an added dimension.”

The 30-year-old Convey made a $200,000 base salary last year and $215,000 guaranteed, but agreed to terms on a new deal with the Red Bulls. With New York playing in three competitions next year – MLS, US Open Cup and the CONCACAF Champions League – Roxburgh has talked of the need for depth. Convey can play left midfield or left back.

Jonny Steele, acquired last year to provide depth, was thrust into a starting role at left midfield and had no experienced backup. Starting left back Roy Miller, if he is retained, will miss time for the World Cup with the Costa Rican National Team.

Convey was acquired by Toronto FC during the past season from Sporting KC in exchange for a 2014 third-round pick, and played in 21 games, scoring one goal and tallying four assists.

He made consecutive All-Star teams in 2010 and 2011 while playing in 75 games between 2009-11. In 2010, Convey had a career-high 10 assists, won MLS Comeback Player of the Year, and helped San Jose knock the Red Bulls out of the playoffs with a brilliant performance.

Convey has 46 appearances with the U.S. National Team, including playing all three of the group-stage matches in the 2006 World Cup.