WASHINGTON – The LA Galaxy will turn to Jon Kempin to start in net for Saturday’s match against D.C. United.
With starter Brian Rowe out with a groin injury and backup Clement Diop on international duty, Galaxy head coach Curt Onalfo will give the start to Kempin. Signed in the offseason after six seasons with Sporting Kansas City, Kempin will make his first MLS appearance since October 2015 on Saturday.
“Injuries are part of the game. It sounds like a broken record because we've been dealing with it from day one in the preseason. Diop is gone with Senegal so it gives the opportunity for Jon Kempin to step in,” Onalfo told LA Galaxy Insider. “He's got MLS experience, he's in very good form and he'll do a very good job. He continually gets better and he's got time with Galaxy II.
"He's a quality goalkeeper and that's why you have three goalkeepers because when they need to step in, they can do a job.”
For Kempin, the opportunity is incredibly important as he looks to solidify his role with the club.
“I feel great. I've been in this situation before. My teammates are giving me confidence and I feel good” he told LA Galaxy Insider. “I feel ready."
