Cristian Roldan, Jordan Morris make USA’s Gold Cup squad

Cristian Roldan and Jordan Morris were both named to the United States’ final 23-man roster for the Gold Cup on Thursday. Both will be unavailable to the Seattle Sounders until the USA’s run is over, which likely means the earliest they’d be available is on July 14 when the Sounders host Atlanta United. The Sounders play three league games and at least one U.S. Open Cup match between now and then.

Roldan’s inclusion was largely expected. The midfielder has been called into every camp run by USA head coach Gregg Berhalter and even started Wednesday’s Gold Cup tuneup game against Jamaica, a disappointing 1-0 loss.

Morris’ inclusion is a bit more of a surprise. Not only has Morris not played in nearly a month due to a hamstring injury he suffered on May 15, but he’s not been in the best form since starting the season with three goals in his first two games.

Working in Morris’ favor, it appears, is Berhalter’s desire to have backups at every position. Morris likely slots in behind Paul Arriola on the left wing in Berhalter’s preferred 4-3-3.

Ideally, this tournament can serve as a boost for Morris, who starred in the USA’s last Gold Cup appearance. Despite a down year on the club level, Morris scored three goals in the 2017 tournament, including the winner in the final against Jamaica.