It appears that there will be no overturn of the yellow card accumulation suspension for Marcelo Sarvas for the LA Galaxy's next match against the Portland Timbers on June 19, leaving a hole in the Galaxy midfield.
So who will get the start alongside Juninho? LA Galaxy head coach Bruce Arena has a number of options including Rafael Garcia, Michael Stephens, Kenney Walker, and even Hector Jimenez.
Garcia, a second-year midfielder from Cal-State Northridge, appears to be the frontrunner to replace Sarvas. The 24-year-old has made five appearances this season including an 80 minute shift against the New York Red Bulls on May 19.
The other top choice is Stephens, who has been primarily used as a left-sided midfielder this season and has made nine appearances with four starts during the 2013 regular season. However, Stephens has seen considerable time in central midfield during his four year career. Meanwhile, Walker and Jimenez have each seen time in central midfield during MLS Reserve League and preseason matches, but have yet to play in the center during league play.
Arena will have plenty of time to prep his midfielders during Saturday's Reserve League match against the Los Angeles Blues where all four players are likely to see considerable minutes.
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Who should start alongside Juninho against the Portland Timbers?
