The last time Atlanta United played FC Cincinnati this season, the 5-Stripes were without eight first team players due to the international break. Sunday, they'll get another chance at the Orange and Blue, now with just three unable to play.
As has been the case for a good portion of this season, Atlanta United still has a couple of key pieces unavailable for Sunday. Stian Gregersen is still rehabbing his quad injury, and Brooks Lennon and Tristan Muyumba are also listed as out on Saturday's availability report. Both Lennon and Muyumba picked up their injuries against Philadelphia Union last Saturday.
Gregersen's return to play may not be for at least another two weeks, according to head coach Ronny Deila's media availability Friday.
Atlanta United's depth will be challenged again, and Deila has proven he can make creative decisions inside and outside of matches when it comes to squad selection. Saba Lobjanidze played at right wing back when Lennon left the Union game. That could be a possible solution in the starting XI Sunday. Matt Edwards could also slot in out wide and make room for Noah Cobb in the trio of center backs.
To make up for Muyumba' absence, Mateusz Klich and Bartosz Slisz are both fit and have a chance to make the start. One of them will likely be alongside Jay Fortune, who is on an excellent run of form lately no matter where he has played.
The Cincinnati match kicks off another triple-match week for Atlanta United. The 5-Stripes face Orlando City SC Wednesday, May 28 and New York Red Bulls Saturday, May 31. Utilizing their numbers on the bench, especially while players heal from injuries, now becomes nearly mandatory.
"[Depth is] very important," Klich said during his media availability Wednesday. "[When] there is rotation in the team, and everyone get chance to play, it's a good [thing]."
Player | Injury | Status |
Stian Gregersen | Quadriceps | Out |
Brooks Lennon | Hamstring | Out |
Tristan Muyumba | Knee | Out |
