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Top defender Chris Richards took part in his first full practice with the US World Cup team on Monday as the Americans reported to their training base in Southern California.
Richards tore two left ankle ligaments while playing for Crystal Palace on May 17 and missed the Americans’ two friendlies over the past week. He was included in the USA’s 26-man roster for the World Cup, but injured players can still be substituted until Thursday night.
“We’ll see,” said American coach Mauricio Pochettino. “Today is the first time with the team, so it’s good to have almost everyone ready to be selected for the game.”
The Americans open their home World Cup against Paraguay at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, Calif., on Friday night.
AUSTIN, TEXAS – JUNE 19: Chris Richards was included in the USA’s 26-man roster for the World Cup, but injured players can still be substituted until Thursday night..(Photo: Omar Vega/Getty Images) ( )
The 26-year-old Richards had been training on his own away from his teammates during US practices in recent days, but he got through the entire workout in front of more than 5,500 fans at Great Park in Orange County with no apparent problems. Richards then laughed and joked with fans as he signed autographs after practice.
The Americans badly want Richards to be a key contributor at the heart of their defense, so they are giving him every opportunity to get fit. Richards is considered the best center back among a thin American pool at the vital position.
Richards has previously said he fully expects to play in this World Cup despite the injury setback. He missed the 2022 event in Qatar due to a hamstring injury.
Tyler Adams was briefly on the field with his teammates, but went back to the gym as practice continued. A spokesman said the team is only managing the Bournemouth midfielder’s workload.
