FC Dallas forward Eddie Johnson will miss the next four to six weeks after suffering the second stress fracture in his right foot this year, all but ruling him out of action for the remainder of the regular season.
"Eddie is a valuable part of what we are trying to do here, so obviously we are going to miss him," said FC Dallas head coach Colin Clarke. "However, we want him to get the rest that he needs in order to get healthy and we're looking forward to getting him healthy and getting him back as soon as possible."
With only five weeks left in the regular season, Johnson could return for the final regular season game and the MLS Cup Playoffs, but that may be unlikely considering his unexpectedly long absence earlier in the season.
Johnson originally injured his foot on May 22 against Chivas USA. After sitting out for more than two months, Johnson made his return on Aug. 3 in a U.S. Open Cup match against the Columbus Crew and participated in every match until Wednesday's Open Cup victory over the Chicago Fire. Johnson's foot bothered him throughout, ultimately leading to the club's decision to provide him with some rest.
Prior to his original injury, Johnson scored five goals for the Hoops. After his return, the Florida native did not score a goal in MLS play, but his strike total still stands as third-best on the team.
The injury could also damage Johnson's hopes to travel with the U.S. national team to the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany, though the 23-man roster for the tournament won't be determined until just before its start next June.
Jason Halpin is a contributor to MLSnet.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Soccer or its clubs.
