Seattle Sounders: No Need to Rush Jordan Morris Back

With the Seattle Sounders listing Jordan Morris as day-to-day with an ankle injury, caution is the best approach, especially at such an early stage of the season.

We may still only be in March, but the season can already be deemed somewhat of a success for the Seattle Sounders. After all, four points from the opening three games is considerably better than last year, when the Rave Green set a franchise record with a trio of losses to start the campaign.

Of course there’s been other teething problems, but that’s normal at this stage of the proceedings. Regardless, Jordan Morris’ ankle injury is still going to cause some concern among the Sounders’ fanbase.

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Morris suffered his injury during the first half of the 3-1 victory over the New York Red Bulls, in the home opener. He still managed to complete 81 minutes, while also scoring what turned out to be the game-winner, but he did not play for the United States national team and was sent home early to Seattle.

Since then, the 22-year old has been limited to running on the sidelines at training. In that respect, Sounders’ head coach Brian Schmetzer admits his young forward may not play on Friday, against Atlanta.

Speaking to The Seattle Times‘ Geoff Baker and other members of the media, Schmetzer said:

"“He’s out here running around a little bit, just seeing our (medical) guys who are taking a look at him. So, it’s day-to-day. I’d say day-to-day. He came back earlier in the year (from training camp in South Carolina last month) and it was day-to-day so that in itself, that experience helps him. He knows what to feel for and how he feels so we’ll just keep trying to progress him every day and then hopefully he’s ready to play on Friday.”"

Perhaps the most important part of Schmetzer’s comments, was the reference to Morris having already dealt with a similar type of injury. You imagine the Seattle native’s previous experience will help him with his recovery process.

Regardless, the Sounders have repeatedly shown their ability to be cautious with injured players and not rush them back too soon. Perhaps the best example of this is how they dealt with Clint Dempsey’s situation last year.

It also helps that there is quality cover, with Will Bruin capable of playing up front if Morris is unavailable. Overall, its way too early in the season to worry about playing without last year’s top scorer, and there’s nothing to suggest the Sounders will force the issue.

Next: Sounders Blast Red Bulls in Home Opener

Let’s assume Morris is unavailable for the game against Atlanta. While the Sounders will be at home, they’ll be facing an expansion team that has so far impressed, with two wins in three games. What outcome are you predicting, and why? Share your thoughts in the comments section.

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