Through the offseason, Frank Rost's possible return has been an ongoing question mark. Well, it looks like we have our answer, as Hans Backe told MLSsoccer.com that the German keeper will not return for 2012. "He just had a contract for the end of the season," Backe said. "Probably need some veteran," he added. "It's a very, very important position, so we're looking for an established one here. We are talking with goalkeepers, in negotiations. We have a couple of names we are discussing for this season, so we will get one."

Meanwhile, Carl Robinson's retirement has been assumed, and now his departure from the playing roster seems to be confirmed. The Welshman was not listed on RBNY's initial preseason roster. Backe did say that there is no announcement on Robinson, as of yet.

Also missing are Tim Ream (trying to secure a work permit at Bolton), Titi Henry (playing... somewhere else), Luke Rodgers (waiting for visa), Juan Agudelo (US national team), Markus Holgresson (Swedish national team), and Kenny Cooper (arriving at a later date).

Brian Nielsen is present, but it listed as out of contract. Yes, his contract is owned by Red Bull Salzburg, but his status seems inconsistent with reports out of Europe that said that he will stay with Metro for six months. "We will take him to Mexico for two weeks then make a decision," Backe said. "Give him a chance for the start of the preseason and the two weeks in Cancun then take a decision. It will be soon an announcement about his future."

Supplemental draft picks and trialists will report next week.