CARSON, Calif. -- MLS Cup is just days away and centerback A.J. DeLaGarza is confident that he'll be able to play some role on Saturday after being unavailable since late-September.
The Galaxy centerback has been training with the club for nearly a month and told reporters on Tuesday that his knee is feeling the best it has felt since he suffered a left MCL sprain during a Sept. 30 game with the Colorado Rapids.
"It's good, almost 100%," said DeLaGarza of his injury. "I'm not limited whatsoever, so no reason I can't play if I'm needed."
Following training on Tuesday, head coach Bruce Arena was quick to echo DeLaGarza's optimism about a potential return to the field against the Houston Dynamo.
"We'll monitor him through the week of training and see how he holds up," said Arena. "But I'm optimistic that he'll be part of our team on Saturday."
Whether it is in a starting role alongside Omar Gonzalez or on the bench as a substitute with rookie Tommy Meyer inserted into the starting lineup, DeLaGarza is confident that he can contribute in some way on Saturday.
"I'm confident, I'm just getting my rhythm back," said DeLaGarza. "This last week has really helped by confidence."
