Photo by ISIphotos.com
U.S. national team defender Frankie Hejduk was not in uniform for the Columbus Crew's match tonight vs. San Jose and it looks as though he won't be in uniform when the U.S. team faces Costa Rica in San Jose a week from now.
According to a television report during the Crew-Earthquakes match, Hejduk will not play in the Costa Rica qualifier because of the groin injury that sidelined him from tonight's Crew match.
If Hejduk can't go, U.S. national team head coach Bob Bradley will have to turn to either Toronto FC defender Marvell Wynne or West Ham defender Jonathan Spector to replace him when the United States faces Costa Rica at Estadio Saprissa on June 3rd.
Hejduk has enjoyed a renaissance as the U.S. team's starting right back since taking over for injured starter Steve Cherundolo. He helped the U.S. team pull off a two-goal comeback to draw El Salvador, 2-2, in the U.S. team's last qualifier.
Now Bradley will need to turn to Wynne or Spector to replace Hejduk in the lineup. Spector has the edge in national team experience, having made 12 appearances for the national team, compared to Marvell Wynne's two appearances.
Spector fought through injuries to enjoy an increased role with West Ham this past EPL season, including a starting role by the end of the season. Wynne has recently had some injury concerns, but has battled back and looked sharp for Toronto FC this season.
Who do you think should get the nod vs. Costa Rica if Hejduk can't play? Cast your vote:
What do you think of this news? Who do you think will start? Do you think the U.S. national team will be able to win at Saprissa? Will they miss Hejduk?
Share your thoughts below.