Atlanta United centerback Miles Robinson will not play in Wednesday’s Eastern Conference final against Toronto at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Captain and centerback Michael Parhurst trained with the team on Monday, but manager Frank de Boer said it’s too early to know if he will be available on Monday.
“We have to wait,” de Boer said. “He’s on the field. It’s promising. We have to do some tests. It’s looking good.”
Both defenders missed last week’s playoff win over Philadelphia.
Parkhurst sustained a left shoulder injury in the final minutes of the first playoff game against New England on Oct. 19. Manager Frank de Boer said last week that a scan of the shoulder revealed that surgery wouldn't be needed and that the team hoped that he and Robinson would return soon. He said that Robinson was riding an exercise bike, which is a step toward recovery.
The MLS Cup is scheduled for Nov. 10.
Parkhurst, 35, has 20 appearances including 15 starts during the league’s regular season.
In last week’s 2-0 win against Philadelphia in the semifinals, de Boer used Leandro Gonzalez Pirez and Flo Pogba as the centerbacks in a four-man backline, with Franco Escobar as the right fullback and Mikey Ambrose as the left fullback.
Toronto is also dealing with injuries to striker Jozy Altidore and centerback Omar Gonzalez. De Boer said Atlanta United is planning as if Altidore will be used a sub. De Boer wasn’t asked about Gonzalez.
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