:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/49254099/tumblr_o58m0vtKZQ1ru7tqeo1_1280.0.0.jpg)
The Portland Timbers trained at the team's Beaverton practice facility today, putting in their first workout of the week after returning from Sunday's 4-1 loss to Orlando City SC. With a week's practice to go before the Timbers' kick off their upcoming three games in seven days, the team put in a hard but quick session on the pitch before heading indoors for a gym session.
After a warmup period consisting of agility drills followed by the side's standard evolving passing drills, the Timbers broke into two eleven man groups for 7v4 possession drills. From there the side broke into three seven man sides for a series of seven on seven plus one matches with Darlington Nagbe and Ned Grabavoy taking shifts as the "plus one".
Injuries and Absences
Liam Ridgewell was back on the pitch today for the first time in several weeks as he continues making his recovery from the hamstring strain that has sidelined him since week one. Ridgewell worked on the sidelines with a trainer and spent some time nodding up and down the pitch. According to head coach Caleb Porter, Ridgewell could potentially be ready to play for the Timbers' May 1st match against Toronto FC.
Ben Zemanski was also on the sidelines for today's training session after suffering a leg injury last week. Porter told the press that Zemanski could be out several weeks.
Andy Thoma was not present at training today as he continues his recovery from a preseason knee injury.
Michael Seaton was also not with the rest of the first team today, instead spending the day in the gym.
Practice Notes
Fullback Chris Klute was back at his preferred left back position today after playing ninety minute for T2 over the weekend. Grouped with Lucas Melano and Jermaine Taylor, the two players a starting left back would need to have strong connections with for the Timbers, Klute may just be set for a serious look at the left back spot for the Timbers' match this weekend.
There were few highlight reel moments in today's short training session, but rookie Neco Brett did have one stand out moment with some impressive tight control in the team's possession drills. Receiving a pass on the edge of the area, Brett swept the ball behind himself and flicked it on smoothly in a movement that caused one to take notice.