without protection -- to face Kansas City at Gillette Stadium.
In fact, Joseph has not missed a minute since the practice clash that would have ruled out weaker players for a match less than 72 hours away.
"I injured the nose in practice [that Thursday]," said Joseph. "I was going up for a header, and [Revolution forward] Jamie's [Holmes] elbow caught me."
After practice, Joseph was rushed to see a familiar face: his doctor. Joseph broke his nose last season, with most of the trauma occurring to the cartilage rather than the bone. Joseph attempted to play with a protective mask on his face, but memorably cast it aside when it impaired his breathing.
"The doctor was surprised to see me again, especially so soon after the last one," said Joseph. "He took me for an X-ray and then sent me to another doctor, a specialist."
The specialist told Joseph that the source of his pain was in the orbital bone. Rather than the cartilage, the bone, located just above the cartilage that comprises the nose, is more easily remedied.
Doctors broke the bone again that Friday to reset it in order for Joseph's nose to heal properly.
"It was painful for a few days," Joseph said.
Combative in central midfield, Joseph has to be wary of a mistimed aerial challenge that could force him to the sidelines. Or worse, force him to don the mask once again.
"I'm trying to stay out of the corner kicks and the penalty area," said Joseph. "I don't want to make it worse. The doctors wanted me to wear a protective mask, but I didn't want to wear it."
Although he did not miss any time for the potentially catastrophic collision, Joseph is still recovering from the blow.
"I'm definitely to the point now where I'm feeling better," said Joseph. "I should be 100 percent in the next week or so."
Kyle McCarthy is a contributor to MLSnet.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Soccer or its clubs.
