Clint Dempsey removed from USMNT roster after suffering calf injury

Clint Dempsey's injury-plagued season took another unfortunate turn when he was removed from the United States' roster ahead of friendlies against Scotland and Austria. The U.S. captain apparently suffered a right calf strain during Wednesday's training session in Glasgow. Fabian Johnson was also removed from the roster, as he's still bothered by a persistent right ankle injury.

This was supposed to be Dempsey's first appearance for the Red, White and Blue since helping them clinch a spot in the 2014 World Cup with a 2-0 win over Mexico on Sept. 10. Since then, he's fought a hamstring injury and suffered a separated shoulder.

U.S. manager Jurgen Klinsmann had said he was looking forward to getting Dempsey back into camp in a Q&A with USSoccer.com:

"We are excited to have Clint back. He's our captain. It was a huge transition for him going back into MLS, struggling with injuries, not having had a preseason with Seattle. He's working his way back to full fitness and sharpness, and he looks good for us. The results didn't work out the way he wanted them to be in Seattle, but we could see that he, step by step, is getting back in a rhythm, attacking the game and looking good. We're excited to have him back and see him in our group again."

Brad Evans and Eddie Johnson remain with the national team and could both start on Friday against Scotland.

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