OBETZ, Ohio – Columbus Crew head coach Robert Warzycha appears to have two obvious options to replace forward Jairo Arrieta for the team’s matchup against D.C. United on Saturday at RFK Stadium (3:30 pm ET; NBCSN, Live Chat in MLSsocer.com), but he’s not ready to tip his hat on who will get the start.
With Arrieta on international duty with Costa Rica, youngster Ryan Finley and veteran Dominic Oduro are the likeliest options to play up top against D.C., just above playmaker Federico Higuaín.
"It's a game-day decision," Warzycha said. "We've tried a couple of scenarios and we'll see which one we're the most comfortable with."
Finley, a prolific scorer at the college level, made appearances off the bench in the first two matches for a total of 15 minutes.
"I'm prepared for either role this week," Finley said. "It shows Robert has some faith in me. That's great being a rookie. Obviously, the pace is a little faster than college but through every game I've become a little more comfortable."
READ: Arrieta says MLS experience gives him advantage vs. USMNT
If Oduro moves up top, Warzycha could use the versatile Eddie Gaven on either flank and fill Ben Speas in on the opposite side.
Warzycha said that regardless of who fills in for Arrieta, he’s not concerned about the chemistry with Higuaín.
"That doesn't mean he's not going to have a good connection with Oduro or Finley or other players," Warzycha said. "Federico finds the spots on the field to be successful. He's a good enough player to figure it out."
Early in the week it seemed Warzycha would also have to consider changing left backs because Tyson Wahl was tested for concussion symptoms after taking a ball to the head during last Saturday's 1-1 tie with San Jose.
However, after league-mandated testing he was cleared and resumed full training on Thursday and is available for selection.
