José Caicedo
CM
Deep-Lying Playmaker
May 23, 2002 (24)
Right
5'10"
Won't play vs. St. Louis City
Caicedo (thigh) won't be an option for Wednesday's game against St. Louis City SC, according to Adam Susman of The Timber Review.
Analysis: Caicedo exited Portland's last match due to thigh pain, and it's not surprising to see the former Pumas UNAM midfielder being ruled out on a quick turnaround. With Caicedo expected to miss an undisclosed amount of time, Joao Ortiz and Diego Chara are expected to see more playing time moving forward.
Picks up muscular issue
Caicedo was forced to exit in the first half of Saturday's 5-4 win over Minnesota United due to thigh pain.
Analysis: Caicedo had already been affected by muscular problems this season, so a potential new injury could cause serious worries in a team that had relied on him as a defensive midfielder lately. He could easily be ruled out for the upcoming double week and a few more games if a thigh issue is confirmed. In that case, Joao Ortiz and Diego Chara will be the main beneficiaries in terms of playing time.
Fit for bench
Caicedo (thigh) is on the bench for Tuesday's match against Seattle.
Analysis: Caicedo was dealing with a thigh injury ahead of the break, but has used that time to recover, as the midfielder is fit for a spot on the bench. This is a major return for the club, as they gain back a starting midfielder. This will be his first time on the team sheet not starting this season, having started in all seven of his previous appearances.
Remains questionable
Caicedo (thigh) is a "major doubt" ahead of Saturday's meeting with San Jose Earthquakes, as confirmed by coach Phil Neville on Thursday, Adam Susman of The Timber Review reports.
Analysis: Caicedo may not see more action before the World Cup break if he fails to recover quickly from his injury. In that case, Cole Bassett will remain active alongside either Diego Chara (undisclosed) or Joao Ortiz. Prior to the problem, Caicedo served as a consistent defensive contributor over a run of six league appearances between April and May.
Forced off early against Montreal
Caicedo left the field after nine minutes of Wednesday's 2-2 draw with Montreal due to a muscle issue.
Analysis: Caicedo succumbed to a pain and asked to be subbed off, leaving his place on the pitch to Diego Chara for the remainder of the match. The offseason signing has been a regular presence in holding midfield, averaging 54.1 accurate passes, 4.9 balls recovered and 2.6 tackles per game, so losing him reduces the Timbers' strength in defensive and possession aspects. In any case, the full extent of his injury is yet to be revealed.
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