Rafa Marquez sees no sense in talking about last season with the New York Red Bulls any more.
Nothing is going to make the embarrassment go away for the Mexican national team star.
Marquez, a midfielder, criticized his MLS teammates. He was suspended for three games during the playoffs for throwing a ball at Landon Donovan after a loss to the Los Angeles Galaxy. And his play overall was disappointing, and that's being polite.
Marquez insisted Thursday during Red Bulls media day that it's all behind him. His focus is on turning things around this year, and that's something the Red Bulls need after losing their first two games of the season on the road while the 33-year-old sat out the last two games of his suspension.
When the Red Bulls hit the field for their home opener on Sunday against Colorado (2-0), Marquez will be back and ready.
There is a good chance Marquez won't be warmly greeted by Red Bulls fans, though. After all, Donovan was the star he went after. And he's a national soccer hero in the United States.
''I'm not worried,'' Marquez said. ''My actions on the field are going to talk on my behalf.''
Long considered one of the game's top defenders, Marquez is going to be in somewhat of a new role for the Red Bulls this season. He is starting as a midfielder in a move to service Thierry Henry, Dane Richards and Kenny Cooper and ignite an offense that has scored one goal this season.
Marquez played the same role last season, but he was usually listed as a central defender.
''He's has been training well this preseason,'' coach Hans Backe said. ''He showed he is very hungry to perform this year and definitely make a huge difference for us defending and attacking. He's a clever guy, a tactical guy, and it seems he is really geared up for this season.''
When asked about last season, which included a team suspension for criticizing teammates after a loss, Marquez shuts down the conversation quickly.
''Last season is in the past,'' the Mexican captain said. ''There is nothing more to talk about. We're looking toward the future.''
Marquez also isn't feeling any extra pressure to atone.
''I know what I need to do,'' he said. ''I started my preseason early with Barcelona. I am more committed and more embedded into the club. I have more conversations with Hans and (sporting director) Erik (Soler). I am more committed on the field and off the field as well. It's a different approach, not pressure.
''I know what I need to do.''
Marquez defined the new approach as one where he gives his teammates options and ideas moving forward, while being more open to what they can do working with him.
After watching the Red Bulls' first two games, Marquez said they need more order on the field and fewer turnovers.
Henry said Marquez can provide that, especially after the Red Bulls lost their first two games by giving goals away with major blunders.
''We don't come out well from the back, so if Rafa can be around, that can be a massive help to everyone,'' Henry said.
Henry said it's important for the Red Bulls to turn things around quickly, especially with two home games on the horizon.
''You want to start well and connect well with the fans. At the end of the day, three points are three points,'' he said. ''You get them at home or where ever, but I think it's important for the fans on Sunday if we can perform well.''
