According to a report published Friday in the Toronto Sun, Toronto FC captain Michael Bradley could be set to return from injury next weekend when the Reds host the New England Revolution. Bradley sustained a knee injury while on international duty with the United States Men's National Team at the Copa America Centenario.
More than two months out
Bradley hasn't featured for his club since Toronto drew 0-0 with the Columbus Crew on May 21st. After that, he joined up with the USMNT for the Copa America, where he captained them to a 4th place finish. However, the midfielder sustained a knee strain in the United States' 1-0 loss to Colombia in the 3rd place match.
Greg Vanney says next week is targeted return date
On Friday, Toronto FC Manager Greg Vanney confirmed to reporters that, "It's still his goal to be ready by late next week."
However, Bradley did not train on Friday ahead of Toronto's match on Sunday against Columbus.
Reds could use their captain back
The Reds currently sit fifth in the Eastern Conference on 27 points, and could really use their captain back. Forward Sebastian Giovinco, the reigning league MVP, recently hit a barren patch that coincided with a poor run for the club where they only picked up five points from six matches. Though the Italian found his form again last weekend against DC United by hitting a hat-trick in a 4-1 victory, getting Bradley back will only help the Reds as they prepare for the postseason.
That result brought the Reds back to within touching distance of the top of the Eastern Conference. They now sit just six points behind New York City FC, who hold the top spot with 33 points.