New York Red Bull defender Chris Albright has completed a successful comeback almost exactly 12 months after seriously injuring his knee.

The 31-year old played 45 minutes after coming on as a substitute in New York's 2-1 US Open Cup win over Philadelphia Union and he was delighted to have gotten through unscathed.

"It felt good out there, the first time in over a year playing at that level. It was good to kind of get my feet back under me. Obviously the most important thing is we won the game,'' said Albright. "There's still some fitness things to come, but that's only going to come with games at that level. But as far as the physical part, that went well.''

Head coach Hans Backe said Albright would definitely be considered to start when the Red Bulls take on San Jose Earthquakes United at Buck Shaw Stadium on May 8.

"I think he responded well. He's been training full for about a month, and he played one or two reserve games the full 90- minutes. He definitely could be a first-choice as a right fullback,'' said Backe. "He's still on the injured list, but he'll be available for the San Jose game, the game after D.C. United.

"So I'm very happy with what I've seen in Chris Albright. He's a leader, he's a good in the locker room. He really understands the game, has experience, is good on the ball, so he (will be a great asset).''