Philippe Ndinga
LB
Overlapping Full Back
Jun 3, 2005 (21)
Right
6'0"
Heads back to sidelines
Ndinga has suffered a hamstring injury that will prevent him from taking part in upcoming contests, per the MLS Player Status Report.
Analysis: Ndinga had been healthy in recent weeks but didn't play a big role in the latest MLS games. Having previously dealt with minor muscle issues, the youngster is once again struggling to remain in ideal shape as the regular season reaches its decisive moments. Kai Wagner will likely play at left-back in future matches, regardless of Ndinga's status. Hamstring recurrences are common when a player returns before being fully fit, and the Union may be careful about the conditions under which the youngster comes back.
Back available Wednesday
Ndinga was included in the squad as a bench option for Wednesday's 4-3 loss against Orlando but did not feature, marking his return to the matchday squad after being sidelined with a hamstring issue.
Analysis: Ndinga had been listed on the MLS Player Status Report with a hamstring problem, making his inclusion in the squad a more encouraging update than initially anticipated. The left-back has mainly been a rotational option for Philadelphia this season, so his return adds depth rather than shaking up the starting lineup, with Nathan Harriel expected to retain the starting role while Ndinga builds his way back to full fitness.
Absent due to hamstring
Ndinga is out for the time being due to a hamstring injury, per the MLS Player Status Report.
Analysis: Ndinga is a new addition to Philadelphia's report this matchday, giving the Union a fresh hamstring injury in addition to their existing injury concerns. He's been a useful piece at left-back, although he has been more of a rotational piece, so it's not a major loss. Nathan Harriel should start at left-back moving forward, while Ndinga is out.
Two shots Saturday
Ndinga registered two shots (zero on goal) in Saturday's 2-0 defeat against Columbus Crew.
Analysis: Ndinga made his third start of the season Saturday and he put a season-high two shots on target, though he failed to put either on target. He added one tackle and one clearance on the defensive end, but his performance was not enough to stay on the pitch as he was subbed off at halftime for Ben Bender.
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