D.C. United has trumpeted its depth throughout the first quarter of the MLS season. But with injuries mounting and three matches left during a jam-packed May, coach Ben Olsen will be tested in his ability to make the most of what he has left on the roster out of necessity — not rotation. United (5-4-3) lost its second defensive midfielder, Perry Kitchen, to a left knee injury in Saturday’s 1-0 loss at Houston. Kitchen’s primary backup, Marcelo Saragosa (calf), also missed the match, and United’s defensive unit has been without normal starting center backs Emiliano Dudar (hamstring) and Dejan Jakovic (ankle) for more than two weeks.
With forward Chris Pontius ineffective against the Dynamo and complaining of glute tightness, Olsen may be forced to turn to Hamdi Salihi, United’s prized offseason acquisition, who has been used as a substitute in the last six games.
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After a total of six league games this month, United plays five MLS matches combined in June and July.
– Craig Stouffer
