MARIETTA, Ga. — Miles Robinson will not participate in the upcoming friendlies for the United States against Belgium and Portugal due to a groin injury. Additionally, Chris Richards is also expected to miss both matches due to a knee issue, leaving the American central defense with limited options as coach Mauricio Pochettino prepares to announce his World Cup roster.
For Saturday’s match against Belgium, the only available central defenders are Tim Ream, Mark McKenzie, and Auston Trusty.
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According to Pochettino, outside back Joe Scally and defensive midfielder Tanner Tessmann can also fill in at central defense. Pochettino has implemented a three-central defender system since September.
Robinson suffered his groin injury during training on Tuesday, as reported by Pochettino.
Richards played until the 75th minute in Crystal Palace‘s Europa Conference League match against AEK Larnaca on March 19. He has been ruled out for Saturday and will likely also be unavailable for Tuesday’s match.
“The club permitted him to come to the U.S., but he reported knee issues,” Pochettino explained. “After assessing him, he managed to participate in part of Tuesday’s training but could not complete Wednesday’s session and now he’s experiencing discomfort in his knee.”
“We hope it’s not serious, but he’s out for tomorrow, and I don’t think he’ll be ready for Tuesday,” he added.
Pochettino mentioned that navigating injuries now could ultimately benefit the team during the World Cup.
“We need to evaluate all available options because unexpected circumstances can arise,” he said.