CARSON, Calif. – It has been a trying year, to say the least, for the LA Galaxy’s A.J. DeLaGarza.
The popular eight-year veteran has had to wade through injuries that have included a deep bone bruise in his left foot and a torn labrum in his right shoulder. Then he saw his playing time diminish dramatically as a result.
But the former second-round draft pick out of the University of Maryland could be back in the mix after going the distance in the Galaxy’s last three games, two of them clean sheets and including Sunday’s regular season-ending 0-0 tie with FC Dallas in front of 27,167 at StubHub Center.
“It’s nice to play,” he told reporters with a laugh after Sunday’s game. “I always say you have to be ready when your number’s called, and I think I’ve done that.”
DeLaGarza missed much of the preseason because of the foot issue, then hurt his shoulder in a 2-2 draw with the Chicago Fire on Aug. 24. He played only briefly during the month of September and former Galaxy II standout Daniel Steres – named to last week’s team of the week by mlssoccer.com – has stepped up in his place in the center of the Galaxy defense.
Head coach Bruce Arena wouldn’t say if DeLaGarza would be on the field for Wednesday’s MLS Cup postseason opener against Real Salt Lake at StubHub Center, but DeLaGarza said he’ll be ready to go if he gets the opportunity.
“Your goal is to be on the field, especially during the playoffs,” he said. “I have a lot of experience in the playoffs and whether it’s me, Steres, Jelle (Van Damme) or Leo(nardo) out there I think we’re all going to push each other and make each other better, like we’ve been doing all year.”
The 28-year-old admitted it’s been a difficult season, but he’s never let the inactivity get the best of him.
“Yeah, it’s frustrating when you’re not playing consistently,” he said. “But I come here and still try to help guys, whether that’s helping the young guys or push the older guys."
Landon Donovan said he’s been impressed with DeLaGarza ever since the former two-time NCAA champion joined the Galaxy in 2009.
“He’s just a professional,” Donovan said. “A.J. doesn’t get beat because he’s not paying attention or he makes mistakes. That rarely happens. You know when he’s on the field you’re getting a real solid effort and a solid performance.
“He’s a smart player and he understands how to win. Everywhere he’s been he’s won.”
DeLaGarza said he would love to lend his expertise come playoff time.
“You have to be ready when you’re called,” he said. “That’s probably why I’m still here.
“Whether I’m playing in a playoff game or not I’ll be ready.”