Chris Richards’s World Cup in doubt as ankle injury rules USMNT defender out for Germany friendly USMNT defender Chris Richards’ World Cup participation is uncertain due to an ankle injury sustained in a Premier League match, causing him to miss the final World Cup tune-up friendly against Germany. Head coach Mauricio Pochettino expressed frustration with the evolving timelines for Richards’ recovery and stated the team will not take risks on players not fully fit. A decision on Richards’ inclusion in the World Cup squad must be made by June 11.

• Chris Richards will miss the USMNT’s World Cup friendly against Germany due to an ankle injury.
• His status for the World Cup remains in doubt as coach Mauricio Pochettino awaits further assessments.
• Richards tore ligaments in his ankle, an injury that has caused him to miss recent club matches.
• Pochettino is unhappy with the unclear recovery timeline and emphasizes that only fully fit players will compete.
• The deadline for medical changes to the World Cup squad is June 11.