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Red Bulls' GM Erik Soler: Playoffs Or Not, Hans Backe To Coach NYRB In 2012

Red Bulls GM Eric Soler has already named Hans Backe the coach for 2012, even if New York fails to make the MLS playoffs on Thursday night against the Philadelphia Union.

By Jesse Holland
HARRISON NJ - AUGUST 11: Hans Backe of the New York Red Bulls celebrates after defeating Toronto FC 1-0 on August 11 2010 at Red Bull Arena in Harrison New Jersey. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for New York Red Bulls)
HARRISON NJ - AUGUST 11: Hans Backe of the New York Red Bulls celebrates after defeating Toronto FC 1-0 on August 11 2010 at Red Bull Arena in Harrison New Jersey. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for New York Red Bulls)
Getty Images for New York Red Bu

New York Red Bulls General Manager Erik Soler gets my vote for world's greatest boss.

That's because Soler today declared (via The New York Times) that embattled team coach Hans Backe would return for the 2012 season, even if the Red Bulls (9-8-16) fail to make the MLS playoffs.

"Hans is the head coach next season, regardless. I met with our owner three weeks ago to discuss the next two seasons. Red Bull is showing a lot of faith, of course they want to win all the time."

New York, with just 43 points, is currently floundering in fifth place in the Eastern Conference despite the league's highest payroll and a bevy of International superstars.

Hardly the outcome pundits predicted at the start of the 2011 season.

Without a win on Thursday night against the Philadelphia Union, it could be goodbye postseason and hello 2012. Complete with Hans Backe.

For better or for worse.

-- See Once A Metro for more on the Red Bulls.

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