Seattle Sounders forward Clint Dempsey and defender Brad Evans were both left home for the team's matchup at Toronto FC on Saturday, but head coach Sigi Schmid said he's optimistic about each player's return to the lineup at home on July 9 at CenturyLink Field.
“After a successful run in Copa America over the past month with the U.S. men’s national team, our staff has decided to give Clint a breather this weekend in Toronto," Schmid said. "Ideally a bit of rest enables Clint to continue his strong form as we head into the busy summer stretch of our MLS schedule.
"Regarding Brad, he’s battling a calf strain at the moment and won’t factor in Saturday’s match, but his injury isn’t expected to be long-term and we’re optimistic that he’ll return by the LA Galaxy game on July 9.”
Dempsey started all six Copa America Centenario matches with the USMNT last month, picking up three goals and three assists in 460 minutes. He has two goals in 10 league games this season for the Sounders, and last played for the club May 21 vs. Colorado.
Evans has appeared in 12 games this season after battling a shoulder injury early in the year.
