CHICAGO (AP) — Chris Richards joined the U.S. for training on Friday in Chicago in a positive sign for the top American defender as he tries to make it back in time for the World Cup.Richards tore two ligaments in his left ankle while playing for England’s Crystal Palace on May 17. He has been ruled out for Saturday’s friendly against Germany, but the U.S. is holding out hope that he might be able to play in its World Cup opener next week against Paraguay.“Chris Richards is on the right path to coming back and being completely with the squad,” midfielder Weston McKennie said. “I think everyone trusts his body and what he feels and the coaching staff as well. He’s an important piece of the group, (with) his energy, his leadership on and off the field. And so obviously we’re just all behind him and can’t wait to have him back and out with the group.”
During the 15-minute portion of practice that was open to the media, the 26-year-old Richards showed no signs of any issues as he warmed up with the rest of the team at Endeavor Health Performance Center, the practice home for Major League Soccer’s Chicago Fire.
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Richards, who missed the 2022 World Cup because of a hamstring injury, is considered the best central defender for the United States.“His training and his evolution is well, but he still is not ready to compete and to play,” U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino said before practice.
