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After the recent friendlies, it’s clear that there’s plenty of work to do for the USMNT to be ready for high level competition. One glairing issue is defensive solidity and center back is no exception. There are plenty of options at central defense but finding the right pairing and seeing consistent defensive excellence is a key aspect of the team developing a winning strategy.
That has taken a bit of a hit with Chris Richards’ injury. The Crystal Palace man has been out since September and will miss games until the November international break wraps up according to his manager as reported by Pro Soccer Wire.
As a result, Richards will not be available for the USMNT Nations League matches against Jamaica in that window. While the Stars and Stripes will be favored and may win without him, it means that new manager Mauricio Pochettino will not get a look at a top choice center back with the squad until March.
Perhaps spring showers will see Richards flower with the national team by that time.