When Atlanta United hosts Charleston in the U.S. Open Cup on Wednesday at Kennesaw State, manager Gerardo Martino has implied that several players who haven’t featured much through the season’s first 14 games may get to play.
Martino hasn’t mixed-and-matched too much in his lineups, other than when forced to because of suspensions or injuries.
That opens a gap as wide as a goal for many of the reserves to potentially start and play meaningful minutes in Wednesday’s tournament game, while the usual starters get some rest in anticipation of Saturday’s home game against Columbus.
Here are five players to watch (if they play):
Josef Martinez, striker. Why is he on the list? Because, until playing slightly more than 20 minutes in last week's 2-0 loss to Chicago, he hasn't played since March because of a thigh injury suffered in action with the Venezuelan national team. He needs playing time to regain the rhythm and anticipation that helped him score five goals in his first three games. Martino said there's a chance he may start.
Miles Robinson, centerhalf. The team's first-ever selection in its first-ever SuperDraft has yet to appear for Atlanta United this season. The former Syracuse player, picked No. 2 by Atlanta United, has the size and athleticism to be a solid player in MLS.
Andrew Carleton, midfielder. Carleton, a native of Powder Springs, has one appearance for Atlanta United this season when he came on for a few minutes at the end of the 4-1 win over Houston. He is fast, skilled and typically gets the crowd fired up.
“You go into every game hoping you are in the 18 no matter what the competition is,” Carleton said. “I know a lot of the guys that haven’t gotten a lot of playing time are eager to get the call.”
Carleton and Chris Goslin recently returned from training with U.S. Under-17 national team in Argentina. Carleton said he will have eight family members at Wednesday’s game.
“I just want to play well, hopefully get a goal or assist, and contribute to the team,” Carleton said.
Chris Goslin, midfielder. Goslin, a native of Locust Grove, followed Carleton as the team's second Homegrown signing. He has yet to appear for Atlanta United this season.
“I’m definitely excited,” Goslin said about the possibility of playing. “It’s a great venue, great pitch. It’s a perfect game to make (my debut).”
Goslin said as many as six of his family members will be at the game.
Alex Tambakis, goalkeeper. The team's first-ever signing has yet to appear this season. The Greek-American has made numerous loan appearances for Charleston.
“He’s done well (in camp),” Atlanta United starting goalkeeper Alec Kann said. “He’s good with his feet. He’s comfortable with the ball. He’s got a big frame. That helps him a lot.”
Bonus player:
Jeffrey Otoo, midfielder. The Ghanian was signed by Atlanta United and sent on loan to Charleston last season. That loan continued this season. His playing time with the Battery has been limited this season. He is fast and has a powerful left foot. This may be the first chance many Atlanta United supporters have had to see him play, if he plays.
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