Andrei Chirilă
CIN
Center Back
Ball-Playing Center Back
Aug 15, 2008 (18)
Left
6'3"
Rejoins defensive rotation
Chirila is back from international duty and available for FC Cincinnati's MLS clash against Atlanta United on Saturday after being left off the latest injury report.
Analysis: Chirila missed the trip to Montreal while away with his national team but is now back in contention for defensive minutes. The center-back had started three of Cincinnati's previous five MLS matches before the international break, although Nick Hagglund and Teenage Hadebe remain ahead of him in the pecking order. Chirila should provide additional depth in central defense against Atlanta, with a reserve role more likely unless the coaching staff opts to rotate its back line.
Away on international duty
Chirila is unavailable for the upcoming visit to Montreal due to international duty, according to the league.
Analysis: Chirila had started three of Cincinnati's last five MLS matches but remains behind Nick Hagglund and Teenage Hadebe in the center-back pecking order, so his absence doesn't greatly disrupt the defensive scheme. Chirilia should return to the squad after the international window closes, looking to be an option for the Oct. 10 trip to Atlanta.
Assists on Saturday
Chirila assisted once to go with three shots (one on goal), one cross (one accurate) and two chances created in Saturday's 3-3 draw against Charlotte FC.
Analysis: Chirila set up Kevin Denkey's first goal in the 51st minute. Chirila made 53 passes and also recorded two tackles and a clearance. He has featured in nine games, starting seven times and this was his first assist of the campaign.
On bench to face Orlando
Chirila (concussion) is among the substitutes for Saturday's clash with Orlando City.
Analysis: Chirila has cleared the concussion protocol but may see few minutes in his return while all of Samuel Gidi, Kyle Smith and Matt Miazga start in the back line. The youngster's return gives Cincinnati some depth at center-back, adding an option that generated more than three clearances each of the last four times he logged at least 45 minutes on the pitch.
Won't play Saturday
Chirila (concussion) won't be an option for Saturday's game against San Diego FC, according to Laurel Pfahler of The Queen City Press.
Analysis: Chirila exited Wednesday's loss to Inter Miami with a concussion, and that's why he won't travel to face San Diego on Saturday. The defender has started in four of his six appearances this season, but Matt Miazga and Gilberto Flores should be capable replacements for him.
Concussion protocol forces exit
Chirila (concussion) came off the bench for 14 minutes in Wednesday's 5-3 loss against Inter Miami before being forced off due to concussion protocols, leaving his availability for Saturday's clash against San Diego uncertain, according to Cincy Soccer Talk.
Analysis: Chirila will need to clear concussion protocol before being considered for selection against San Diego, with the club monitoring his condition over the coming days before making a final call on his involvement at the weekend. No further details have been provided on the nature of the incident that triggered the protocol, and FC Cincinnati will provide an update on his status ahead of Saturday's fixture.
Five clearances in win
Chirila registered one shot (zero on goal) in Saturday's 2-0 victory against New York Red Bulls.
Analysis: Chirila's five clearances led the Cincinnati backline Saturday as they recorded a clean sheet in a 2-0 home triumph over Kansas City. For good measure the central defender added one tackle (one won), one interception and one block each across his full 90 minuet shift. Chirila has made 13 clearances and scored once over his first three MLS appearances (two starts).
Scores Wednesday
Chirila scored one goal to go with one shot (one on goal) in Wednesday's 4-4 draw against New York City FC.
Analysis: Chirila made just his ever appearance in MLS Wednesday, playing the entire second half while also recording his first career goal. He will remain. a useful backup option off the bench as he still needs more league experience before being an every game starter.
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