SEATTLE, WASH. – Seattle Sounders FC today announced that forward Clint Dempsey is undergoing medical evaluations for an irregular heartbeat. As a result of this health concern, Dempsey is unable to compete for Seattle in Sunday’s match against the Portland Timbers. As the medical process unfolds and information is gathered internally, no other details are being made publicly available at this time.
Currently in his fourth season with Sounders FC since joining the Rave Green as a Designated Player midway through 2013 from English Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur, Dempsey has contributed eight goals and two assists in MLS action throughout 2016. The 33-year-old has racked-up 82 appearances for Seattle, recording 37 goals and 23 assists across MLS regular season and postseason play since joining the club. He is the only player in MLS to record double-digit goals and assists over the past two league campaigns, leading Sounders FC to a Supporters’ Shield, Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup title and three postseason appearances in his time with the organization.
Unbeaten in five matches under Interim Head Coach Brian Schmetzer, the Rave Green prepare for its last regular-season matchup of 2016 against Portland on Sunday, August 28 at Providence Park. Kickoff for that contest is slated for 2:00 p.m. PT, with ESPN televising the match nationally, and KIRO Radio 97.3 FM and El Rey 1360 AM providing regional radio coverage. On Sunday, August 21, Sounders FC earned a 3-1 win over Portland at CenturyLink Field, followed by a 1-1 draw in Houston on Wednesday, August 24. Seattle is now just one point behind the Timbers and the San Jose Earthquakes for the sixth and final MLS Cup Playoffs position.
