D.C. United’s midseason changes began to take shape Thursday with the acquisition of veteran midfielder Ivan Guerrero from San Jose in exchange for a partial allocation.
But with United (7-8-1, 22 points) entering the weekend still riddled with injuries and suspensions — for the first time this year, all three of this past offseason’s top foreign acquisitions, Marcelo Gallardo (hernia surgery), Gonzalo Peralta (hernia surgery) and Gonzalo Martinez (red card suspension), will be out — it’s as if the team’s current funk is expected to continue.
“[It’s] discouraging because it’s putting a lot of pressure on too many young guys at the same time,” said United head coach Tom Soehn.
Guerrero, however, should help against the Wizards (5-5-7, 22 pts). The 30-year-old Honduran famously torched United with two goals and an assist in a 4-0 victory for Chicago in the 2005 playoffs. He provides reinforcement to United’s left side and defense, which still hasn’t achieved an all-important shutout in league play.
“We’ve got to apply ourselves to make sure now that we’re shutting that down,” said Soehn. “We’re still looking to make some changes to help us do that.”
The reference is a clear reminder to goalkeeper Zach Wells of the bulls-eye on his back, whether he deserves it or not.
“It’s frustrating, but at the same point, I haven’t been my best,” said Wells. “I know that some of it’s warranted, but a lot of people don’t see what goes into it on a day-to-day basis. You take it with a grain of salt, but you’ve got to expect it. If you don’t play well, then you’re going to get replaced, and that goes for everyone.”
