Gustavo Bou Has Positive Performance In Return To Starting XI
Gustavo Bou Has Positive Performance In Return To Starting XI
"So, you just have to get back on the field and his performance tonight was good."
The New England Revolution had been without Gustavo Bou for some time but the Designated Player made his first start since the beginning of April in New England’s 3-1 win over Inter Miami.
Bou played 65 minutes in the victory and recorded 29 touches while taking five shots. He worked well with fellow DP Carles Gil and made great runs against Miami. Bou looked like the striker that the Revolution had been in need of.
Head coach and sporting director Bruce Arena touched upon Bou’s return after the win.
“He’s [Bou] good, he just hasn’t played. I don't even know how long it's been; has it been two months? I don't even know. So, you just have to get back on the field and his performance tonight was good,” Arena said. “It was a little rough in New York [last] Saturday, but it'll get better. So that's positive”
Bou was paired alongside Bobby Wood, forming a quality striker partnership. With Wood tied with Gil for the lead in the club’s golden boot race, he is a great partner for La Pantera.
The veteran MLS striker allows for Bou to focus on getting behind opposing defenders while Wood focuses on physical hold-up play.
Matt Polster discussed the impact of having a player such as Bou return to the starting XI.
“I think you can see the influence [Bou] has on the team and the game. [Bou’s] ability to just hold up the ball, but also run in behind and pick a good pass,” the midfielder said. “I think he’s just the full package up top for us. He’s been consistent when he’s healthy and when he’s playing. I think he raised the level of this team.”
Arena also added that Bou could have played longer and that he is a potential candidate to play a full 90 minutes against Orlando City on Saturday. The striker is trending in the right direction and will help New England push for the playoffs and possibly an MLS Cup.
If Bou can build chemistry with Wood, the duo could become a dangerous duo for opponents. On top of his intense connection with Gil, the 33-year-old can help unlock the Revolution attack.