Omar Gonzalez Withdraws from US Squad

LA Galaxy defender Omar Gonzalez has been withdrawn from the USA National Team roster for their upcoming CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers against Jamaica and Panama. Gonzalez was removed at halftime of the Galaxy’s 5-0 win over Chivas USA on Sunday and has been diagnosed with a left hip strain. Michael Orozco will replace him.

Orozco has played five times for the National Team in 2013, including four appearances in the Gold Cup. Overall, he has now reached 10 caps with the U.S. MNT.

Gonzalez will remain in Los Angeles to receive treatment from the Galaxy training staff.

Gonzalez is the only player to start and play the full 90 minutes in all eight games that the USA have played in the current round of FIFA World Cup Qualifying.

Although the US has already qualified, the results will have an effect on likely seeding in the World Cup.