Nacho’s almost ready.
Head coach Mauro Biello confirmed after Tuesday’s training session that Ignacio Piatti has rejoined the group and will be available for selection this Saturday at 7:30pm against Sporting Kansas City at Stade Saputo, a game presented by Oasis (TVA Sports, 98,5fm & TSN Radio 690 – TICKETS).
After sustaining a left hand injury on May 21 at Orlando City SC, Piatti played two more games before surgery became a necessity. In his absence, the Impact strived to keep things tight at the back and has kept two straight clean sheets.
“Defensively, we’ve done well,” said Biello. “We didn’t concede. We now have to find that balance. A player such as Nacho brings creativity to our play. If he’s in the lineup, he’ll help us.”
In 13 MLS games this season, Piatti has proved that he should be considered among the top MLS players: eight goals – he is tied for third in the scoring charts – and three assists in 1,169 minutes of play.
Biello also confirmed that Calum Mallace, who returned to training on the sidelines last week after recovering from a foot injury, has rejoined the squad.
News is heartening for Donny Toia (hamstring) and Marco Donadel (ankle), as well, although they may need some more time, still.
“Toia is closer to coming back than Marco, but we’ll monitor them closely this week,” said Biello. “Donny will undergo some testing this week or on Monday, and if he passes, he’ll be good to go.”
Finally, another player could return to the Stade Saputo field on Saturday: Justin Mapp. An Impact player from 2012 to 2015, Mapp made history last December when he became the very first player in MLS history to sign a contract as a free agent, after his deal with the Bleu-blanc-noir expired.
Out of luck with injuries in the last year and a half, Mapp has only played 22 minutes in two MLS games this season. But he made the bench in each of Kansas City’s last four games.
“Those years with him were top-notch,” said defender Hassoun Camara. “We got along really well on our right side. It’ll be great to see him again, because he’s had his fair share of physical issues. I see he’s finding his fitness again and feeling a lot better. Good for him. He’ll be my opponent this Saturday, and we’ll go for a drink afterwards if he feels like it, but I wish him all the best no matter what, because he’s such a great guy.”
