Brian Schmetzer: "We need to start scoring goals"

Seattle Sounders FC head coach Brian Schmetzer talked to the media after this Thursday's training before the trip to Philadelphia. He discussed the team's current injury situation and how they are preparing for their upcoming match against Philadelphia Union.

Schmetzer confirmed that some of his star players, such as João Paulo, Stef Frei, and Albert Rusnák, are sidelined with injuries and will miss the match against Philadelphia. He said that Rusnák and Frei's conditions will be evaluated next week. He stressed the importance of being careful and not forcing the players to return before they are fully recovered.

The interview also discussed the Sounders' recent difficulties with finding the net. Schmetzer acknowledged that the team has been generating chances but not converting them. He emphasized the need for better choices in the attacking third of the pitch.

Schmetzer also discussed how the team's strategy has been affected by injuries and new signings. He said that De la Vega's adaptation to the system has taken some time, since he joined the team late and missed some of the preseason training.

"Getting De la Vega introduced into the team, that slowed us down a little bit because Pedro was new. He wasn't here last year. There were certain things, and he didn't have a full preseason."

- Brian Schmetzer

Looking ahead to their opponents, Schmetzer praised the Philadelphia Union for their consistent performance, highlighting their undefeated home record in the last five games. He mentioned some Union's players like Julián Carranza, Mikael Uhre, José Martínez and the goalkeeper Andre Blake.

Overall, the interview provided valuable insights into the challenges and preparations surrounding Seattle Sounders FC. With key players injured and a crucial match against a strong opponent on the horizon, Coach Schmetzer remains focused on getting his team back on track.

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