Los Angeles Galaxy defender Omar Gonzalez has been withdrawn from the U.S. National Team roster for their upcoming CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers against Jamaica and Panama after sustaining a left hip strain. Gonzalez was removed at halftime of the Galaxy’s 5-0 win over Chivas USA and will remain in Los Angeles to receive treatment from the Galaxy training staff.
The loss is significant for U.S. coach Jurgen Klinsmann because Gonzalez is a dynamic defender who had played in all eight games of the current round of FIFA World Cup Qualifying. In fact, Gonzalez collected 12 of his 14 caps in 2013, and also helped the U.S. win the CONCACAF Gold Cup Final for the first time since 2007.
Klinsmann has replaced Gonzalez with defender Michael Orozco, who will join the U.S. training camp this afternoon in Kansas City.
Orozco played five times for the National Team in 2013, including four appearances in the USA's run to the CONCACAF Gold Cup title. Overall, he has now reached 10 caps with the U.S. MNT.
The U.S. will next face Jamaica on October 11 in Kansas City, followed by an away game against Panama on October 15 in Panama City.
Meanwhile, the Galaxy will be back in action on Wednesday, October 16 when they host the Montreal Impact at home.
By Staff of TheDailySportsHerald.com and news services
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