Oalex Anderson suffers setback on injured knee

Oalex Anderson suffered what appears to be a somewhat significant setback in his quest to return from a torn ACL he suffered the day before MLS Cup last season. The speedy winger had been training with the Sounders since at least May and was apparently close to being able to become a full participant at practices. The hope was that he’d be fully ready in time for the 2018 preseason.

But after twisting his knee awkwardly in a non-contact drill on Monday, his future has been cast into further doubt.

“He twisted his knee,” Sounders head coach Brian Schmetzer told reporters. “It was his repaired knee, so obviously there’s some concern there. That’s why we had him come off the field. He was just by himself and landed funny. I feel bad for the kid because he’s super talented.”

While this may push back Anderson’s return date, Schmetzer indicated the team’s opinion of the St. Vincent and The Grenadines international remains high.

“We’ll stick with him,” he said, noting the Anderson had yet to undergo a formal evaluation. “He’s a good kid, he’s worth the effort. It’s just a shame because he was close to getting back into full training. That stuff happens, but you feel bad for him.”