Nashville SC have been without the services of their 2020 top scorer to start their second season in MLS, but that could change soon. Forward Daniel Ríos has been dealing with a foot injury through preseason, but could return shortly.
Head coach Gary Smith confirmed that Ríos has been training with the first-team group this week, and is “much further ahead” than the other Nashville absentees.
“He won’t be available for selection this weekend, though,” said Smith. “This is his first full week of training, so we’ll be taking a bit more care and caution with Daniel.”
Abu Danladi and Brian Anunga are the other two names on the injury report. A hamstring issue has kept Danladi out of action this season, but Smith confirmed that he’s been able to start work on the training field, a positive sign for his involvement in the short term. “He’s getting ever closer to joining the group, and I wouldn’t think he’s too far away from that,” said Smith.
Anunga has been out of action for the last two matches with what’s listed as a left knee and quad issue. He’s the first name off the bench in midfield, and his absence leaves Nashville thin in the middle of the park. Smith told media that he’s the furthest away from recovery of the trio, and won’t be available for two to three weeks minimum.
Nashville take on expansion side Austin FC on Sunday night.
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