COMMERCE CITY, Colo. – One door closes and another one opens.
Colin Clark’s extremely unfortunate cruciate ligament injury, his second one in a year, abruptly ends the Colorado Rapids midfielder’s season. But while the team regrets his loss, it nevertheless gives opportunities to other squad players who have been trying to secure regular starting positions in 2010.
The obvious players ready to step up in Clark’s absence are Jamie Smith and Wells Thompson, two wide players like Clark. Head coach Gary Smith also adds veteran midfielder Claudio Lopez to the equation.
“It’s a big loss, but that’s what squads are all about," Smith said at training on Wednesday. "It opens up the opportunity for other players to get more time, possibly in Wells, Jamie and Claudio, who himself is extremely frustrated. I fully understand [López's] position. He wants more time and more football.
"It’s obviously a disappointment for Colin and for all his teammates and us but it’s an opportunity for someone. Like I say, that’s why you have a stronger group.”
Smith said he is continuing to look for another creative attacking player, but not necessarily another wide player to replace Clark’s long-term absence. For the moment, however, he wants to rely on the players he has what is undoubtedly a deeper squad in 2010.
Thompson, who has featured regularly for the squad since his move from New England at the beginning of the season, has switched all year between a starting and bench position. Clark’s absence may give him the opportunity to secure a more regular starting place.
“I’ve had conversations with coach about me, Jamie and Colin all vying for the same position,” he told MLSsoccer.com. “It’s a problem, but it’s a good one to have. Colin’s a good guy, a great player, but the other side of the coin is that it does give me an opportunity.”
Thompson says he had the better individual performances in the last two home games. The one thing he feels is missing is a goal. While he did score twice in a US Open Cup victory over Kansas back in April, Thompson is yet to open his account for the Rapids in MLS league action.
“I haven’t produced anything, which is very frustrating,” he said. “It’s just been the final touch [that's been] a little bit off.”
Maybe Thompson will get another chance this weekend as the Rapids travel to face Columbus. Kickoff is Saturday at 7:30 p.m. ET.
