Four weeks is a long time, but that rumored recovery time for 22-year-old American attacker Joe Gyau seems like a day at the beach compared to the latest prognosis.
United States men’s national team head coach Jurgen Klinsmann revealed that Gyau will be out until January after suffering a knee injury in the USMNT’s 1-1 draw with Ecuador on Friday.
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Gyau had been electric for the States in his debut against the Czech Republic in September, arguably the side’s most dangerous player.
From the Associated Press:U.S. coach Jurgen Klinsmann revealed the timetable Monday, saying the Borussia Dortmund player is expected to be “out for a while.”
A 22-year-old from Silver Spring, Maryland, Gyau returned to Germany and was evaluated by doctors who determined that surgery is required.
Hurt early in Friday’s match against Ecuador, Gyau was diagnosed with a meniscus injury. He had said after the game he thought a four-week recovery would be a worst-case scenario.
It would be an even bigger blow for the States, but the next few matches are more tune-ups and talented-finding for Klinsmann. Gyau has likely shown his skill set to get plenty of chances, and being at Borussia Dortmund won’t hurt.
The question is who will seize the chance afforded by Gyau’s absence, as the youngster seemed set to start for the USMNT as long as he remained healthy. Will Bobby Wood, who subbed on for Gyau on Friday, be the guy? Could Miguel Ibarra make some magic? Juan Agudelo? Gyasi Zardes?