Gallardo rejoins team, unlikely to play tonight
D.C. United playmaker Marcelo Gallardo rejoined his team Monday after a two-week rehabilitation stint in Argentina, but he’s unlikely to figure in a reserve-heavy lineup anticipated against Mexican first division team Cruz Azul.
Already last among four teams after two matches in its CONCACAF Champions League group, D.C. United has resorted to treating tonight like an exhibition while turning its primary attention on rescuing its fading domestic playoff hopes. Nearly all of the team’s normal starters were given Tuesday off, and not many are expected in uniform tonight.
“We have to do it,” said United head coach Tom Soehn. “We don’t want to see our season slip away so we have to make sure we put ourselves in the best way to succeed. Again, it’s a great opportunity for some young guys to go out there and show what they’re made of.”
Gallardo has played just 105 minutes (one start) since undergoing hernia surgery in July.
“What was most important for me was to get rid of all the pain I was feeling constantly, and I’ve done that,” he said. “I hope to be able to play some minutes on Saturday [against Chivas USA].”
Forward Luciano Emilio will miss the match after limping off during Sunday’s loss at FC Dallas with a hamstring strain. Midfielder Joe Vide (hamstring) is listed as probable and could make his first start since Aug. 30.
