A number of changes have been made to the MLS All Star team roster ahead of Wednesday evening's match against Tottenham Hotspur. Toronto FC's Michael Bradley, the New England Revolution's Chris Tierney and the LA Galaxy's Robbie Keane and Steven Gerrard have all pulled out with injuries, and they are set to be replaced by Sam Cronin of the Colorado Rapids, Ethan Finlay and Waylon Francis of the Columbus Crew, and Gyasi Zardes and Juninho of the LA Galaxy.
One more potential abscence
Those numbers don't quite make sense; it seems illogical to bring in five players to replace four. However, Toronto FC striker Sebastian Giovinco is carrying a heel injury, and according to the club's official Twitter feed, "Sebastian Giovinco (heel) will fly to Denver and be evaluated there by the medical staff. #TFCLive".
Deserving replacements
While it's a shame for the players who had to pull out, those stepping in are undoubtedly worthy. Fans all across MLS were shocked that Finlay wasn't named in the Fan XI, let alone the matchday All Star squad. He leads the league in assists with 12, and has been one of the most dangerous players in MLS all season.
Juninho too has impressed in league play as well this season, and was another name mentioned often in terms of worst snubs.
Wise decision from Keane and Gerrard
It's not shocking to see that Robbie Keane and Steven Gerrard have pulled out of the game; Gerrard is still looking for match fitness after making his MLS debut on July 17th in LA's 5-2 victory over the San Jose Earthquakes. He was included on the roster as one of the Commissioner's Picks, and MLS Commissioner Don Garber was much derided for the decision given that Gerrard had yet to play a minute in MLS when Garber made the decision.
Keane was a far less controversial selection, because he has been excellent this season. However, he has struggled with injuries and it seems a sensible decision for the Galaxy captain not to risk a further spell on the sidelines.
The MLS All Stars will take on Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday night at Dick's Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City, Colorado at 9:00 PM ET. Keep checking back for the latest MLS All Star Game coverage from VAVEL USA.