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Top defender Chris Richards participated in his first full practice with the U.S. World Cup team on Monday when the Americans reported to their training base in Southern California.
Richards tore two ligaments in his left ankle while playing for Crystal Palace on May 17, and he missed the Americans’ two friendlies last week. He was on the 26-man U.S. roster for the World Cup, but injured players can still be replaced until Thursday evening.
“We will see,” said American coach Mauricio Pochettino. “Today is the first time with the team, and so it’s good to have almost everyone ready to be selected for the game.”
The Americans open their World Cup at home against Paraguay on Friday evening at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California.
AUSTIN, TEXAS – JUNE 19: Chris Richards was on the 26-man U.S. roster for the World Cup, but injured players can still be replaced through Thursday evening. (Photo by Omar Vega/Getty Images) ( )
Richards, 26, had been training alone, away from his teammates, during U.S. workouts in recent days, but he completed the full workout in front of more than 5,500 fans at Great Park in Orange County with no apparent problems. Richards then laughed and joked with fans while signing autographs after practice.
The Americans definitely want Richards to be a key contributor at the heart of their defense, so they’re giving him every chance to get back into shape. Richards is considered the best central defender among a small American group at this vital position.
Richards has previously said he fully expected to compete in this World Cup despite the injury setback. He missed the 2022 event in Qatar with a hamstring injury.
Tyler Adams was briefly on the field with his teammates, but returned to the gym as practice continued. A spokesperson said the team were simply managing Bournemouth’s midfield workload.
