With Edson Buddle and Landon Donovan having extended their stay in South Africa, the Galaxy's attack will need to continue finding capable replacements on the front line.
Fortunately, Alan Gordon has already proven his worth this season.
While Gordon has battled injuries and has seen limited playing time this season, he has one game-winning goal to his credit. And if called upon, Gordon said he's ready.
“Everybody is in a good spot,” Gordon said. “When guys slide in, everybody's confident and everybody has been able to contribute when they come in. That's just the way this season has gone. It doesn't always happen like that, so we're fortunate to have that happen. Hopefully it continues.”
The Galaxy will return to action Saturday at Toronto FC, and having not had a match since June 9 has been a positive, Gordon said. Injured players have gotten extra time to rest and recover, while the regulars have had to maintain their fitness levels.
"I've had a couple of problems this year and I feel healthy now," Gordon said. "It's just a matter of getting game-fit so I can come into the game and hopefully contribute."
With the US advancing to the Round of 16 at the World Cup, both Donovan and Buddle will be in South Africa when the Galaxy return to league action. Should the US reach the quarterfinals, the Galaxy duo will likely not return in time for the Galaxy’s July 4 match against Seattle Sounders.
Mike Magee, meanwhile, is out with sports hernia surgery.
Gordon started the season off with a knee injury and recently picked up a quadriceps injury as well. But he was able to pick up two starts in between injuries, and scored the only goal in the Galaxy's 1-0 win at Colorado to help the club pick up three valuable road points.
No matter who steps into the lineup, Gordon said the team has been succeeding. Thus, when it is his turn to fight for room on the field, it is difficult.
"Guys have just slid in and we've been winning,” Gordon said. “When that happens you've got to start at the bottom of the list again. I was in a position where I was starting when I got injured, and guys have stepped in and done a great job, so I've got to wait my turn. When that chance comes again I've got to be ready."
