Josef Martinez is back in Atlanta United’s starting 11 for Wednesday’s game against D.C. United at RFK Stadium.
The striker has missed the past three games because of a bruised right foot. Atlanta United went 1-0-2 in those games. It will be his seventh start and 10th appearance this season. He missed 10 consecutive games earlier this season because of a thigh injury sustained while playing for the Venezuelan national team. The team went 3-4-3 in that stretch.
MLSSoccer.com noted that in 632 minutes with Martinez playing, Atlanta United has averaged 2.7 goals per 90 minutes. In 1,480 minutes without him, that average is 1.4.
The starting lineup:
Goalkeeper Brad Guzan, who is making his fourth start this season.
Right fullback Anton Walkes, who is making his seventh start.
Centerback Michael Parkhurst, who is making his 23rd start.
Centerback Leandro Gonzalez Pirez, who is making his 23rd start.
Left fullback Greg Garza, who is making his 21st start, and first since suffering a shoulder injury in the MLS All-Star game.
Holding midfielder Jeff Larentowicz, who is making his 20th start.
Holding midfielder Carlos Carmona, who is making his 20th start.
Right midfielder Hector Villalba, who is making his 23rd start. He leads the team with 10 goals.
Attacking midfielder Miguel Almiron, who is making his 23rd start. He has eight goals and nine assists.
Left midfielder Yamil Asad, who is making his 21st start. He has two goals and a team-leading 10 assists.
Striker Josef Martinez, who has scored nine goals in nine games.
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