Chris Richards Tears 2 Ankle Ligaments 5 Days Before U.S. World Cup Squad Reveal
Updated
Updated · Sports Illustrated · May 21
Chris Richards Tears 2 Ankle Ligaments 5 Days Before U.S. World Cup Squad Reveal
4 articles · Updated · Sports Illustrated · May 21
Crystal Palace defender Chris Richards has been sidelined indefinitely after tearing two ankle ligaments, a major setback for the U.S. men’s team less than a week before Mauricio Pochettino names his 26-man World Cup squad.
The 26-year-old was hurt in a collision with Brentford’s Igor Thiago, landed awkwardly, finished the final 15 minutes, then needed help off the field after the match.
Oliver Glasner said Richards is receiving treatment from “sunrise until sunset” to reduce swelling, but called his return a race against time; he will miss Palace’s final league game and is doubtful for next Wednesday’s Conference League final.
For the USMNT, the injury clouds the status of a likely starting center back already set to miss the opening of training camp, with the World Cup opener against Paraguay scheduled for June 12.
With a key defender sidelined, can Pochettino’s $6 million strategy prevent a defensive collapse for the USMNT?
Why do AI models predict an early World Cup exit for the USMNT despite their 'dream draw'?
Is Pulisic’s recent assist a true return to form or a false dawn for the US attack?
Crystal Palace’s Chris Richards Suffers Ankle Ligament Injury: Implications for USMNT World Cup Roster
Overview
Crystal Palace defender Chris Richards suffered a significant ankle injury with damaged ligaments during a match against Brentford, leading to immediate medical treatment and ruling him out of the next game. As a key player who has played over 4,000 minutes this season, his absence is a major setback for both his club and the USMNT, especially with the World Cup roster decision approaching. The focus now is on his intensive recovery and determining when he can return, as his injury forces both teams to reconsider their defensive strategies and adapt quickly to this unexpected challenge.