Atlanta United centerback Miles Robinson left the U.S. men’s national team because of a left hamstring strain, according to a statement from U.S. Soccer.
Robinson, 22, has been one of the better centerbacks in MLS this season. Atlanta United will host New England in the first round of the MLS playoffs Oct. 19 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Robinson is in Atlanta and being evaluated, according to an Atlanta United spokesman. The spokeman said the team would have no further update Saturday.
Robinson suffered the injury during exercises after Friday’s 7-0 win against Cuba in Washington, D.C. Players who don’t make appearances in games typically are worked out afterward.
Robinson has 33 starts as part of 34 appearances in MLS this season.
If Robinson can’t face New England, Atlanta United manager Frank de Boer could use captain Michael Parkhurst, Flo Pogba or Jeff Larentowicz.
Parkhurst, who is retiring at season’s end, has 15 starts as part of 20 appearances this season.
Pogba has six appearances this season.
Larentowicz is primarly a defensive midfielder who can play centerback.
But none of those players have Robinson’s ability to win one-on-one battles, speed and athletic ability.
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