Donovan ruled out of World Cup qualifiers

By Tim Reynolds

Associated Press

Published: Tuesday, Oct. 9 2012 3:47 p.m. MDT

An official, top, calls for trainers as Los Angeles Galaxy's Landon Donovan lies on the ground after injuring his leg during the second half of an MLS soccer match against Real Salt Lake, Saturday, Oct. 6, 2012, in Carson, Calif. Real Salt Lake won 2-1.

Mark J. Terrill, Associated Press

View 2 photos »

Summary

Landon Donovan will not play for the U.S. national team in two upcoming World Cup qualifiers because of an injured left knee.

MIAMI — Landon Donovan will not play for the U.S. national team in two upcoming World Cup qualifiers because of an injured left knee.

U.S. Soccer announced the decision Tuesday, hours after coach Jurgen Klinsmann said the team was "very, very positive" that Donovan would be available for the games — Friday against Antigua and Barbuda, then Oct. 16 against Guatemala.

Donovan, the leading scorer in U.S. national team history, is not expected to be replaced on the roster.

The severity of Donovan's injury is unclear. U.S. Soccer said he will return to Los Angeles for further evaluation. Donovan was hurt Saturday while playing for the Los Angeles Galaxy.

Also ruled out for the qualifiers is Brek Shea because of an abdominal injury.

Comments