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There might be some good news as we head towards playing Atlanta United this weekend at Providence Park. Diego Valeri who’s been out of action due to a hip flexor injury is likely to return this weekend, though Darlington Nagbe who is nursing a hamstring injury is still a question mark.
Valeri returned to training on Wednesday, while Nagbe trained on the side with Timbers Director of Sports Science Nick Milonas rehabbing his hamstring injury. Caleb Porter says he won’t know more until later on in the week in regards to both midfielders.
"We'll obviously know more as the week goes along," Porter said. "I'd say Valeri is likely, unless, you never know, you have some setbacks. Darlington, we just don't know yet."
- Coach Caleb Porter, Source: Oregon Live
Both men were sorely missed in the 3-0 loss in San Jose.
With the loss in the rearview mirror it’s time to look ahead to Atlanta United - and it’s good to know that Valeri is at least likely to play. Whether he makes the starting lineup could be another thing, as Porter could start him out on the bench and use him as a super sub later on.
As far as Nagbe is concerned, hamstrings can be a tricky. One small tweak, and it’s back to rehab. It’s best not to rush an injury like that.