NASHVILLE, TN – Sam Surridge’s Nashville SC debut is imminent, according to head coach Gary Smith. In his media availability ahead of tomorrow’s Leagues Cup Round of 16 match against Club América, he confirmed that the newly-signed Designated Player is set to be part of the squad.
“Sam will definitely be included,” said Smith. “What, where and how he’s used is to be determined. But that will be a huge boost for the group.”
Surridge, 25, was signed from Premier League side Nottingham Forest for a reported $6.4 million, with add ons that could rise to become the biggest transfer fee in club history. Introduced to fans ahead of Nashville’s 3-4 loss to Toluca, Surridge only began training with the team last Wednesday and was kept out of their penalty shootout win over FC Cincinnati while building to fitness.
A debut just six days after beginning training with the team would be the fastest a DP striker has been integrated into the team. Jhonder Cádiz didn’t make his first appearance until nearly two weeks after beginning training, while Aké Loba‘s first appearance took eight days from beginning training.
Smith also hinted at a return for Jacob Shaffelburg, who took a knock in training on Friday and was held out against Cincinnati, saying that he’ll be “in a better place to be a part of the game”. He also gave an updated on Randall Leal, saying he’s still a few weeks away but progressing well after suffering a nasty-looking ankle injury against Colorado.
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