All of Ben Olsen’s cautious optimism, at best, during the preseason about a possible end to his interminable comeback from ankle surgery didn’t add up to a spot in the 2009 season opener.
Yet there he was, starting his first D.C. United match since the 2007 playoffs — a span of 15 months — last weekend in Los Angeles.
“To see him in the starting eleven, he kind of downplayed it, but everyone around him knew how big of a deal it was and how great it was to have him back out on the field,” said United midfielder Devon McTavish. “I think he did a terrific job. I didn’t really see him miss too much out there. He didn’t look rusty at all.”
Only one game into the Major League Soccer’s eight-month season, penciling Olsen into every lineup isn’t recommended. But his presence in Saturday’s home opener would be a lift not only to the team but also to the fans that last June unveiled a massive Olsen tribute banner that said, “Heart of a Lion.”
“We’ve taken it easy on him but he’s made it through all of training,” said United head coach Soehn. “He still brings a lot of good qualities, in some of the things he does from his experience which makes him a very effective guy for us.”
Olsen admitted that perhaps he’s still preparing for the worst.
“I’m still pretty new to this thing, being able to play,” said Olsen. “In the offseason there were times when I wasn’t even thinking about trying preseason because I couldn’t run. [The ankle is] just starting to respond a little bit, and how much does it respond will probably dictate how I feel. If I’m OK, you’ll know it.”
