CARSON, Calif. – Omar Gonzalez is optimistic about his status for this Wednesday’s match against the Montreal Impact, but whether he suits up for the LA Galaxy remains up in the air.
Gonzalez was unable to travel on international duty after suffering a left hip strain during the first half of LA’s 5-0 victory over Chivas USA on Oct. 6. Although the injury flared up against Chivas, Gonzalez told reporters on Monday that he has dealt with the strain since the Galaxy’s 2012 MLS Cup victory nearly a year ago.
Although he was disappointed about not suiting up for the United States, Gonzalez is optimistic that he’ll be able to be ready for Wednesday’s match against Montreal.
“I think that I might be ready for Wednesday, but let’s see what my body says,” said Gonzalez, who turned 25 on Saturday. “We’ll talk with the coaches and physios and see what they think.
“If it’s possible, I’d like to play in both games [this week],” Gonzalez later added. “I want to be in every game that I’m available for. If I can play in Wednesday’s game then I want to play, but if not then we have to reassess and see if I can go for Sunday.”
Gonzalez may be optimistic about his status, but LA head coach Bruce Arena stated on Monday that there has been no decision made about the defender or Landon Donovan, who returned from international duty due to an ankle injury on Sunday.
“We haven’t finalized anything yet,” Arena told reporters. “We’re hopeful that they’ll play on Wednesday.”
With the Galaxy on the brink of playoff qualification, Gonzalez is hopeful that he’ll be able to suit up in one of LA’s matches this week.
“This week is very important for us and, it’s important for every team in the league right now,” said Gonzalez. “This is what it comes down to. It’s the fun part of the season and we just have to make it happen."
