[MLS SPOTLIGHT: New York Red Bulls] The New York Red Bulls have announced that Coach Hans Backe wouldn't be returning as coach and that they have hired Scotsman Andy Roxburgh, the former Scottish national team coach and UEFA technical director, as its new sporting director responsible for all soccer activities at the club.

Backe was with the team for three seasons. Mike Petke will coach the club on an interim basis. Assistant coach Jan Halvor Halvorsen’s contract was also not extended.

"I am excited and honored to be given the opportunity by Dietrich Mateschitz to contribute to the development of such an outstanding soccer organization as the New York Red Bulls," said Roxburgh in a statement. "I'm also delighted to be getting involved in Major League Soccer, which has an impressive reputation as a fast growing and highly competitive league."

Global Sporting Director of Red Bull Soccer Gerard Houllier, the former French national team coach, announced the moves.