USA's Chris Richards Fully Participates In Practice Before World Cup Opener

Top defender Chris Richards participated in his first full practice with the U.S. World Cup team on Monday when the Americans reported to their training base in Southern California.

Richards tore two left ankle ligaments while playing for Crystal Palace on May 17, and he missed the Americans’ two friendlies over the past week. He was included on the United States’ 26-man roster for the World Cup, but injured players can still be replaced until Thursday evening.

“We will see,” U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino said. “Today is the first time with the team, and so it’s good to have nearly everyone ready to be selected for the game.”

The Americans open their home World Cup against Paraguay at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, on Friday night.

AUSTIN, TEXAS – JUNE 19: Chris Richards was included on the United States’ 26-man roster for the World Cup, but injured players can still be replaced until Thursday evening..(Photo by Omar Vega/Getty Images) ( )