Donovan, Shea ruled out for USA

Landon Donovan and Brek Shea have both been ruled out for the United States’ upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

Donovan (knee) and Shea (abdominal) were both injured in recent MLS matches but were called into camp regardless.

Donovan was injured in the Los Angeles Galaxy’s match on Saturday against Real Salt Lake, while Shea failed to play in FC Dallas’ draw with Chivas USA.

But according to a U.S. Soccer press release no replacements will be drafted into coach Jurgen Klinsmann’s squads, leaving the side short on quality down the flanks.

“It’s unfortunate for Landon and Brek that they won’t be able to play,” Klinsmann said in a media statement.

“Landon was very optimistic over the weekend when his knee was feeling much better, but now he needs time to recover.

We knew Brek was a question mark coming in, and now we have a clear picture of where he stands.

“(But) we feel confident that the group we have will get the job done.”

Graham Zusi started on the right wing against Jamaica in the most recent qualifier and is likely to get the nod again after his performance drew rave reviews from Klinsmann.

Joe Corona and Sacha Kljestan are other wing options on the 22-man roster, while Fabian Johnson, who has emerged as Klinsmann’s first-choice left back, is also capable of playing a more advanced role.

Donovan skipped Tuesday’s training session to undergo an MRI on his knee, one that he was supposed to have ahead of flying to Miami but elected to skip because he felt his knee had improved significantly.

However, he is now expected to return to Los Angeles while Shea will travel to Dallas to continue treatment.