Sunday, February 1, 2009

Another one goes down

Add Pavel Pardo to the list of players who may be in doubt for Mexico's game against the United States.

Pardo left Saturday's America-Morelia match in the 59th minute with a thigh injury. Pardo took a knee to the thigh early in the match and before the hour mark the pain apparently became too much to handle.

Afterwards, though, Pardo reassured the media that he would be okay.

"I wasn't able to run 100 percent but it's not that bad," he was quoted in Reforma. "I have one week to recover."

Pardo's presence had been a bit of a stabilizing force for a banged-up Tri squad. Without Andres Guardado (injury) and Gerardo Torrado (suspension), Mexico was already lacking talent and experience. Also, Carlos Vela (suspension), Fernando Arce (suspension) and Jonny Magallon (injury) are all out for the match, the latter having only slim possibilities of playing. Rafael Marquez's availability is also in question.

Without Pardo, Mexico would lose a great deal of experience and leadership, as well as a player great set-piece ability. Still, one week might be enough time for him to recover, as he said, so not sure if Tri fans need to fret too much. Yet.

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