D.C. United pushed through a lengthy training session in the muggy midday heat Thursday. The practice once again included plenty of fitness drills, as well as work on the ball. Tuesday’s workout had midfielder Ben Olsen telling a television crew to make sure they got everything on film because he would need the footage to present to his lawyer.
Head coach Peter Nowak delivered a fiery talk midway through practice, reminding his players to push themselves because everybody is gunning for Major League Soccer’s best team.
DefenderFacundo Erpen also returned to the practice field. After missing the second half of last weekend’s win over Columbus with a bruised foot, he was given the first two days of training off this week.
Erpen should be healthy for Saturday’s visit to Chicago, which would mean John Wilson – who replaced Erpen on Saturday – is likely to remain in his substitute role. After making 11 starts last year, Wilson has cracked the first 11 just twice this year.
“I think my mentality fits to come in, especially late in the game when guys have tired legs to do the work, do the hard stuff and let the game come,” said Wilson. “Lately, I think the coach has had a lot of confidence in me coming off the bench, especially when we have a lead, to try and shut down their forwards. I’m confident in that role, but hopefully I can still contribute in other ways.”
