CARSON, Calif. – After missing the LA Galaxy’s 2-1 defeat to FC Dallas with a left hamstring strain, Robbie Rogers is back in training with the club and hopeful about making an appearance in the club’s vital two-game series with Seattle Sounders FC.
Rogers suffered the injury in the early stages of the Galaxy’s 3-0 victory over Toronto FC on Oct. 4 and was ultimately made unavailable for last Sunday’s defeat against FC Dallas with James Riley earning the start at left back. However as the Galaxy began their preparations for the Sunday’s final home match of the regular season, Rogers was once again on the training pitch.
“I’m good. I played as a neutral today in training and did fitness then I’ll go into full training [on Wednesday] and go from there,” Rogers said after training on Tuesday. “I think [I’ll be ready on Sunday]. With a hamstring, you have to let them heal or you’re just making it worse. It’s been a pain in the butt but you have to let it heal.”
In his first full season with the Galaxy, the midfielder turned left back has been one of the league’s most improved players this season with two assists in 17 games played. A vital piece of the puzzle for the Galaxy throughout their recent run up the standings, Rogers’ improving status is a major positive for head coach Bruce Arena.
“We will be fine,” Arena told reporters on Tuesday. “Things happen during the week so you never know, but our team is pretty healthy at this point.”
After an injury-stricken 2013 campaign, Rogers admits that he was scared that the strain could cost him the rest of his season when he first felt the sharp pinch, but he was relieved once he learned that he’d be back in time for the two-game series with Seattle.
“Of course, I was worried right after that game and when it first happened,” said Rogers. “I was worried that I could miss the playoffs because while the Supporters’ Shield is nice, all that matters is winning MLS Cup.
“The most important thing for me was getting the MRI and once I did, they told me that I could be back within a week or two.”
And as the Galaxy ready themselves for their two most important games of the season, Rogers is chomping at the bit to make a return to the squad.
“They are huge games that will prepare us for the playoffs,” Rogers said. “Seattle is a great team and it’s going to be difficult no matter what. I just hope that I can play a part in whatever way that I can.”
Adam Serrano is the LA Galaxy Insider. Read his blog at LAGalaxy.com/Insider and contact him at LAGalaxyInsider@Gmail.com.
