CARSON, Calif. – The LA Galaxy are preparing for life without Robbie Rogers after the right back was placed on the Season Ending List on Thursday.
Rogers will miss the remainder of the season due to nerve damage in his left ankle. The Galaxy have been without the 29-year-old right back all season since he picked up the injury prior to the season with Nathan Smith, Bradley Diallo, and Rafael Garcia each having stints at the position.
“You always wish the best for the player. For us, from a soccer perspective, it’s been very difficult dealing with this from day one because we haven’t had a player of his caliber. He was one of the best right backs in the league," head coach Curt Onalfo said. "That’s always a difficult thing to deal with it. We wish him nothing but the best in terms of his recovery. We’ve been dealing with it and we’ll continue to deal with it but we wish him the best.”
Per MLS rules and regulations, the Galaxy will receive a roster spot due to Rogers' status but will be responsible for the player’s budget charge. The Galaxy could potentially get roster relief, if and when they sign a player to fill the vacated spot.
According to Onalfo, the Galaxy have the room to sign a replacement, but the emphasis is on this weekend’s match with New York Red Bulls.
“Right now, our focus is on this weekend,” he said. “We’re potentially looking at players that can fill that role,” Onalfo said. “Obviously, we’re focused on the weekend.”
