Key facts
- Top U.S. defender Chris Richards has recovered from an ankle injury and is available for the World Cup opener.
- Coach Mauricio Pochettino confirmed Richards' availability on Thursday.
- Richards sustained the injury on May 17 while playing for English club Crystal Palace.
- The U.S. will face Paraguay in their opening World Cup match.
- Pochettino has selected a starting goalkeeper but has not disclosed their name.
Top U.S. defender Chris Richards has been cleared to play in the World Cup opener against Paraguay, coach Mauricio Pochettino announced Thursday. Richards suffered a significant ankle injury on May 17 while playing for English club Crystal Palace, but has recovered sufficiently to be available for selection.
Pochettino stated that Richards "is available to be selected" for Friday night's match, though a decision on whether he will start or come off the bench is yet to be made. The coach credited the medical and performance staff for their hard work in Richards' recovery, noting that having all 26 players available is a positive development.
Richards is considered a key player for the U.S. defense. He missed the team's recent friendlies but expressed confidence in his ankle's recovery, stating that "if there's any time to sacrifice yourself, it's now." His presence is seen as crucial for the Americans' chances against a strong Paraguayan side known for its defensive organization and counterattacks.
Adding to the U.S. team's advantage, Paraguay's playmaker Julio Enciso is reportedly injured and likely to miss the match. Pochettino also confirmed he has chosen a starting goalkeeper for the opener but declined to name the player, keeping both Matt Freese and Matt Turner guessing.