What happened: Chris Richards will miss the final U.S. tuneup before the World Cup, coach Mauricio Pochettino said Friday. The absence raises doubts about whether the defender will be ready for the tournament opener.
Why it matters: Richards is described in the report as a top defender, making his status a key roster and lineup concern days before the World Cup begins. His absence from the final warmup limits the coaching staff’s chance to test its first-choice back line before group play.
By the numbers: Richards was previously reported to be recovering from an ankle injury and trained individually this week. The U.S. opener is scheduled for June 12, one week after Friday's update.
What to watch: Watch whether Richards returns to full training before the opener. Pochettino’s next availability should clarify whether a replacement plan is already being prepared.