Donovan expected to return to Galaxy lineup

Luis Bueno

CARSON, Calif. – Landon Donovan is expected to be back on his home turf on Wednesday and the LA Galaxy are hopeful he can return to the lineup for the team’s matchup Saturday against the visiting Philadelphia Union. (10:30 pm ET/7:30 pm PT, FOX Sports West).

Donovan missed the Galaxy’s 4-1 loss at Real Salt Lake last Saturday while on duty with the US national team against Argentina, and was back in action for Bob Bradley's team Tuesday night against Paraguay in Nashville, Tenn.

READ: USA vs Paraguay Match Recap

The LA captain logged 90 minutes in each game, and although he should be available for the Galaxy’s matchup at The Home Depot Center this weekend, what condition he’s in remains to be seen.

He was scheduled to return to Southern Califonia on Wednesday.

"I’m sure he’s going to be tired one way or the other, not only the minutes but the travel and all of that," Galaxy coach Bruce Arena said. "He’ll be fine. He’s been through this plenty of times. I’m sure he understands all the issues."

And if by chance Donovan is not feeling right?

"We’ll do what makes sense," Arena said. "We’re still at the beginning of the year and we’ve made a habit of not rushing anyone into games that we didn’t think were ready, and that would be the same with Landon."

Regardless, Donovan’s Galaxy teammates are glad to have their captain back ahead of a matchup against the undefeated Union, perhaps the surprise team of the Eastern Conference thus far.

"He’s one of the best players in the team, if not the best," Galaxy midfielder Chris Birchall said. "You always miss your best players. He’ll come back straight into the team and hopefully he’s not tired from the two games. With him in the team he gives us an attacking threat and leadership – he’s the captain as well. We look forward to getting him back."