Washington Post · Jun 13, 2024
D.C. United captain Steven Birnbaum out indefinitely with left knee issue
Steven Birnbaum has appeared in six matches this year, starting the past four. (David Kirouac/USA TODAY Sports)D.C. United captain Steven Birnbaum will be sidelined indefinitely after reaggravating his left knee, Coach Troy Lesesne said Thursday, further depleting the defensive ranks as the MLS team enters the second half of the season.
The 33-year-old center back underwent preseason surgery and was initially expected to miss at least four matches. Because of a setback and the team’s cautionary approach, Birnbaum ended up sitting out the first 11.
He appeared in the past six games, including four consecutive starts, but left at halftime of United’s match against Toronto FC on June 1.