Defender Miles Robinson, a key figure in the U.S. national team’s qualification for the World Cup, is almost certain to miss soccer’s marquee competition after rupturing his left Achilles’ tendon during Atlanta United’s match Saturday.
The MLS club Monday announced Robinson would undergo surgery later in the day, ending his fifth pro season and dashing hopes of playing in the World Cup in Qatar in November.
Such an injury typically sidelines a player six to 12 months. U.S. teammate Aaron Long (New York Red Bulls) suffered the same injury last May and did not return to full strength until early this year.