Breaking: Thiaré, Williams to miss Two-to-Four Weeks

well. dang.

Welp. Here’s the press release:

Atlanta United announced today that forward Jamal Thiaré and defender Derrick Williams are each expected to miss the next two-to-four weeks after suffering injuries in the club’s match against New York City FC on Saturday. Thiaré suffered an injury to his left hamstring. Williams suffered an injury to his left calf. Each player’s rehabilitation process will determine his recovery timeline.

These injuries don’t come at an ideal time for Atlanta United. The Five Stripes have undefeated Philadelphia in town on Sunday and reigning Shield winners FC Cincinnati next Saturday. With Giorgos Giakoumakis and Stian Gregersen already dealing with their own injuries, it’s a tough time to be going head-to-head against two of your biggest challengers for top spots in the East.

There is good news though. Giakoumakis could very well be back in time for Cincy and maybe even Philly. New loanee Daniel Rios could provide serviceable backup production in the meantime.

Additionally, Gregersen’s three-to-four-week return timeline dates back to March 25. If that timeline holds true, there’s a chance the Cincinnati game is in play here. We’ll likely get an update on his status tomorrow morning when Atlanta United opens training to media.

In the meantime though, there will likely be serious questions at center back against Philadelphia. Noah Cobb has performed admirably in three starts, but he’s had Williams’ veteran presence next to him. Luis Abram is likely to step in as Cobb’s counterpart and, well, there’s a reason Cobb has continued starting even with Abram back from international duty. There are legitimate reasons for concern against a Union team whose direct style of play constantly asks questions of opposing back lines.