Chris Richards

Richards has rejoined full training this week and is ready to play without any minutes restrictions, pending manager Mauricio Pochettino's approval. the player said , according to Tom Bogert of The Athletic. "It's the World Cup. I was going to make myself ready regardless. ... If there's any time to sacrifice yourself, it's now. I know I'm able to play Friday, but I don't make those decisions."

Analysis: Richards has rejoined full training this week for the first time since picking up an ankle injury with Crystal Palace on May 17, having missed two preparatory friendlies for the World Cup as a result. The player is fit, unrestricted in terms of minutes and eager to put himself forward, which represents a major boost for the host nation ahead of coach Mauricio Pochettino's decision on whether to hand him an immediate starting role.

Jun 8, 2026

Training fully Monday

Richards (ankle) is back in full training Monday, according to Steven Goff of Yahoo Sports.

Analysis: Richards is further improving his status as the USMNT prepares for the World Cup, as the defender returned to full training Monday. This comes after a report that he was targeting the opener for a return, further reinforced by his availability in training Monday. If he is deemed fit for the opener against Paraguay, he is more than likely to start in the center of the defense.