CARSON, Calif. --
Chivas USA defender Alex Zotinca will be out between six to nine minths after suffering a partial ACL tear in his right knee in Chivas USA's match against D.C. United on March 5 in Cibolo, Tex.
The tear was diagnosed following an MRI late last week, and Zotinca will now undergo anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery. The surgery will be performed by Chivas USA Team Doctors Michael Gerhardt M.D. and Bert Mandelbaum M.D. early next week.
A five year veteran of Major League Soccer , Zotinca joined Chivas USA prior to the 2007 season. In his first season with the Red-and-White, he was primarily used at right back, and played in 22 games (starting 20) and notched three assists. In his MLS career, Zotinca, originally from Romania, has played 107 games (starting 82), with three goals and five assists.
Chivas USA kicks off its 2008 MLS season on March 30 at FC Dallas before playing its 2008 Home Opener against Real Salt Lake on Saturday, April 5 at The Home Depot Center. For tickets, please call 1-877-CHIVAS-1 or visit www.cdchivasusa.com.
