U.S. Men's National Team center back Chris Richards has confirmed he is fit and available for the upcoming friendly against Portugal on Tuesday. This news comes as a significant relief for the team, especially given recent defensive injury concerns.

Richards Addresses Knee Soreness

Richards, who plays for Crystal Palace, missed the recent 5-2 defeat against Belgium due to knee soreness. He addressed reporters on Monday during a training session in Marietta, Georgia, explaining the cause of his absence.

The defender stated, "I had a bad tackle in my last game with Palace," referring to a UEFA Conference League match where his club secured a 2-1 victory over AEK Larnaca. He clarified that while he experienced "a little bit of knee pain, knee soreness," he has been training individually all week and is now ready to play.

Boost for a Thin Back Line

Richards' return is crucial for a U.S. defense that has been managing several ongoing injury setbacks. The team has recently dealt with the return of left back Antonee 'Jedi' Robinson from a lengthy knee injury, who managed an assist against Belgium.

However, right back Sergino Dest was not called into this camp due to a hamstring problem. Furthermore, center back Miles Robinson tweaked his groin during Atlanta training and will miss both the Belgium and Portugal fixtures.

Manager's Perspective on Defensive Strength

Manager Mauricio Pochettino had previously noted Richards' soreness upon arrival at camp. During Monday's press conference, Pochettino expressed his satisfaction with the defender's return.

Pochettino commented, "If Chris Richards is available, it’s good," adding the remark with a chuckle. He also mentioned that the squad needed improvement "in the defensive phase" during the loss to Belgium, where they utilized a 4-3-2-1 formation without Richards.

Cardoso Sent Home with Minor Injury

While Richards is cleared, Pochettino shared some less positive injury news regarding midfielder Johnny Cardoso. Cardoso, who played 45 minutes against Belgium, is returning to his club, Atlético Madrid, to manage a minor injury.

Pochettino explained, "He arrived from Madrid with small issues," noting that the discomfort reappeared in his leg after his allotted time on the pitch.

Upcoming World Cup Implications

Tuesday's match against Portugal serves as the final tune-up before Pochettino names his 26-man World Cup roster in New York City on May 26.

The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is scheduled to run from June 11 through July 19, 2026. The tournament will conclude with the final match on July 19 at the New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.