Petke comfortable going out not in NYRB line-up

New York Red Bull defender Mike Petke admits he is comfortable heading into retirement without being a part of the line-up.

The 34-year old will call it quits at the end of the 2010 MLS season and insists he is not holding any grudges as he strives to get his first team spot back in his 13th season of top flight soccer.

“I guess I’m the last of the old school,” Petke told the Star-Ledger. “It’s been an interesting 13 years, adjusting to where things were to where they are now, but I have great memories of both organizations. It’s been a hell of a ride.

“I don’t want to be the guy that’s hanging on to something. I don’t need a 14th season to satisfy my career. I started the first 11, 12 games this year then lost my spot. I dealt with it very well. It’s a situation in my mind that there was no way to go into the (2011) preseason knowing my role would be a second-hand role.

“Hey, three years ago I would be two-footing people in practice to get my spot back,” Petke added. “It’s tough to admit it but I’m not going to — and shouldn’t — win my starting spot back. Tim (Ream) and Carlos (Mendes) are playing great and they’re younger. It’s their time, but I’m ready to fill in if the team needs me to.”