Chicago's Chris Armas has called, Dallas' Jason Kreis has called, and teammate Josh Wolff has also lent his support. Their recoveries from a torn ACL -- and his own previous recovery from a partially torn ACL in 2001 -- have dulled Chris Klein's fears as he endures a torn ACL injury in his left knee suffered on Aug. 14 in a 2-0 loss to San Jose.
"There are always unknowns," said the 28-year-old midfielder. "I'm familiar with the process and with seeing results. It gives me comfort knowing. I'm looking forward to coming back stronger."
Klein would probably like to provide some comfort for his teammates who were in New England to face the Revolution Saturday after falling in the 93rd minute Wednesday at Columbus on a Kyle Martino long-distance strike. The 2-1 loss was the third in a row for the Wizards and they are now at risk of dropping out of second place in the Western Conference as the Colorado Rapids and Dallas Burn trail by only three points.
Klein believes his teammates will rise up without him.
"This team has dealt with the losses of Preki and Igor [Simutenkov]. They can overcome and finish strong right into the playoffs," he said.
However, the amiable Klein is not planning on abandoning his comrades.
"I told the coaches that I want to be involved in any way - encouraging, cheerleading, talking with younger guys," he said.
Having accepted the help of friends and accepted the role within his team fate has handed him, Klein became reflective.
"I've had too much enjoyment with these guys to withdraw," he said. "I may not help them much, but it will be therapy for me."
Robert Rusert is a contributor to MLSnet.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Soccer or its clubs.
