Crystal Palace Coach Says USA Defender Chris Richards Tears Ankle Ligaments

With just five days until the United States names its 2026 World Cup roster, the United States men's national team has potentially dealt a massive blow. 

Star defender Chris Richards has suffered two torn ligaments in his ankle, Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner said in a press conference Thursday. Richards sustained the injury during Palace’s draw with Brentford on Sunday.

The 26-year-old center back from Birmingham, Alabama, recently captained the U.S. in a friendly against Portugal under coach Mauricio Pochettino.