USMNT Players in Key Upcoming Matches as Injuries and Form Play a Role

There is a possibility that two of the United States Men’s National Team’s (USMNT) pivotal players may square off on New Year’s Day, albeit this matchup is uncertain due to recent injuries.

Chris Richards is currently a doubt for Crystal Palace’s encounter with Fulham, following a deep cut sustained during last week’s loss to Arsenal. The defender missed the subsequent defeat against Tottenham, and manager Oliver Glasner has indicated that Richards is still experiencing complications from his injury.

“We are uncertain if he will be available for Fulham,” Glasner stated. “His foot was stitched, but it remains swollen. The healing is progressing, yet he must wear a protective boot and has the challenge of kicking a ball. With the wound so sensitive, it is extremely painful. It is possible he will miss the Fulham match, but he could also be fit to play.”

Conversely, Antonee Robinson is cleared to play and is in excellent form. Recently returning from injury, the fullback has quickly regained his form, demonstrating the attacking prowess that has become his hallmark. Fulham appears significantly stronger with Robinson on the pitch, having secured victories in three of their last four matches with him in the lineup.

Both teams currently sit with 26 points and are vying for a European qualification, making this match a significant test for each side, contingent upon the availability of their key American players.

In Serie A, AC Milan has historically performed well against Cagliari, remaining unbeaten in 15 matches, with 11 victories in that span. This strong record suggests that Milan may not require a standout performance from Christian Pulisic to overcome Cagliari. Nevertheless, Pulisic has been in exceptional form, currently leading the league with a goal every 74 minutes. Following his eighth goal and two assists against Hellas Verona this past weekend, his impact on the team is undeniable, especially as they aspire for either the Scudetto or a return to European competition.

This week, Milan faces the mid-table Cagliari, creating an opportunity for Pulisic to increase his goal tally while Inter, their rivals and league leaders, take on Bologna.

Meanwhile, Brenden Aaronson is set to face Liverpool on Thursday, marking another significant test for him. Having previously come off the bench to assist in a dramatic 3-3 draw against the Reds, Aaronson is anticipated to start in this matchup. With Liverpool’s defense struggling this season, he aims to exploit their vulnerabilities further.

Aaronson’s recent performance against Sunderland, where he provided a crucial assist in a 1-1 draw, has contributed to Leeds’ five-game unbeaten streak. Achieving a sixth consecutive match without defeat will be challenging at Anfield, one of the most formidable venues in football.

In the Championship, Patrick Agyemang is also enjoying a strong season, having scored three goals in December, bringing his total to six. Despite being held scoreless in Derby’s recent 2-1 loss to Leicester City, which ended their four-game unbeaten run, Agyemang is poised for a quick recovery in their upcoming match against Middlesbrough, currently second in the table.

Middlesbrough will be without their American player, Aidan Morris, who is recovering from a leg injury and may return in January, although possibly not for the first match. Agyemang’s consistency will be under scrutiny as he seeks to prove that his recent scoring is not merely a streak, but rather a sign of his long-term potential in the league.