Sounders health update: they’re all still tough kids

Several players are undergoing separate training protocols, but Kim Kee-hee is said to be fully fit.

TUKWILA, Wash. — Seattle Sounders head coach Brian Schmetzer offered updates on his team’s health this week, painting a picture of a team that is mostly healthy with a few nagging injuries. Four players had limited activity: Clint Dempsey, Victor Rodriguez, Handwalla Bwana and Jordan Morris.

Importantly, Schmetzer said that Kim Kee-hee was “fine” after needing to be removed from the Sounders’ match against Minnesota United in the first half with an ankle issue. The South Korean participated fully in training sessions the past few days and does not seem to be suffering any long-term issues from the Minnesota match.

Rodriguez was said to be able to participate fully in training, but abstained from drills Thursday that ran the risk of contact. By Friday, though, he was a full participant. His status for the FC Dallas match on Sunday is unclear..

Dempsey, who did not travel to Minnesota due to lower back tightness, has been doing some rehab work inside and on the sidelines. Schmetzer said that Dempsey is currently progressing through a separate training program, but that he expects the 35-year-old to be available soon.

The remaining two are in longer term recovery programs, but continue to work hard to return. Bwana, who has not played since suffering what the team has called a foot sprain against Real Salt Lake on May 26, is still limited in training, mostly doing work off to the side. Morris is now a routine sight at trainings, participating in side drills with personal trainers as he rehabs from an ACL tear suffered back in February. The team has given no indications he will be able play anytime soon, however.

For a team that was so decimated by injuries at the beginning of the season, the Sounders seem close to having their most important players all available for selection as they look to extend a seven-match unbeaten streak.