CARSON, Calif. – Jack McBean bypassed yet another hurdle as he continues his return to full fitness.
The 18-year-old forward went 15 minutes in the Galaxy’s 1-1 Reserve League draw with USL Pro side Los Angeles Blues on Saturday in his first action since suffering a fractured left clavicle in LA’s 2-0 victory over Real Salt Lake on April 27.
Against the Blues, McBean made a few touches going forward, but was unable to find the back of the net. Although the goal hungry forward will be frustrated that he couldn’t find a goal, he was encouraged with his continued progress from injury.
“I felt good. My injury didn't affect me at all out there. Obviously, my touch wasn't 100 percent there, but overall, I felt alright,” McBean told LA Galaxy Insider. “It’s a little bit scary [initiating contact], but I know that I'm cleared to play and it’s good to get a little run out there, but we just have to go forward from there.”
McBean admitted that it was a “little bit scary” to initiate contact, but Galaxy assistant and reserve team coach Curt Onalfo knew that the burly teenager wouldn't be afraid to mix things up in the final third.
“He’s such a strong tough kid so he’s not thinking about [his injury],” said Onalfo. “We just wanted him to come in and score a goal, that was what he wanted to do, but it was good to get him back on the field.”
With his first appearance under his belt, could minutes against the Portland Timbers on Wednesday be a possibility for the teenager?
“Not sure, we'll see what happens midweek,” said McBean. “We'll see what [head coach Bruce Arena and the Galaxy coaching staff] think because I’m just trying to get more fit. [The reserve game] helped for sure and I'm going to just keep working hard because I'll be back sooner rather than later.”
