The New England Revolution could be bolstered by the return of injured midfielder Joey Franchino for this weekend's match against MetroStars.
The veteran captain has missed each of the last three matches with a right hip strain, forcing Revs coach Steve Nicol to retain Marshall Leonard at left back.
Franchino is listed as questionable for the match, with three weeks already passed since the initial prognosis of his injury. Leonard has picked up a slight knock, a stubbed toe, but he should be at Nicol's disposal if required. Team selection would suggest that Franchino or Leonard would start, while the other would have to settle for a place on the bench.
Clint Dempsey (ankle) and Shalrie Joseph (knee) have also picked up slight knocks, but they are expected to shake them off prior to game time.
Adin Brown is still ruled out through concussion, with the timetable for his return uncertain. Joe-Max Moore and Carlos Llamosa are still out with their respective knee injuries.
After an uninspired 1-0 loss at home to San Jose last weekend, Nicol may be inclined to reintroduce Uruguayan playmaker Jose Cancela back into the lineup. Dempsey featured in a midfield role last week, effectively taking the reins from Cancela. It remains to be seen whether or not Cancela will be reintroduced at the weekend.
Nicol's charges will be looking to make up ground in the Eastern Conference, as the Revolution have fallen three points behind D.C. United in their playoff chase with six matches remaining.
Kyle McCarthy is a contributor to MLSnet.com. This story was not subject to approval by Major League Soccer or its clubs.
