Martinez closer but not yet back for Atlanta United

Josef Martinez.

Josef Martinez.

Josef Martinez is closer to returning to training with Atlanta United, but manager Gerardo Martino declined to give a time frame on when the team’s leading scorer will be back.

Martinez leads the team with five goals, despite only appearing in the season’s first three games. He suffered a thigh injury while playing with the Venezuelan national team.

Additionally, winger Jacob Peterson won’t be among the 18 players selected for Saturday’s game against Houston at Bobby Dodd Stadium.

Fullback Greg Garza, who missed last week’s game while recuperating his hip, may return this week.

Homegrown Players Andrew Carleton and Chris Goslin will be eligible to be selected for the 18. Martino gave them last week off after playing for the U.S. in World Cup qualifying for most of the previous four weeks.