Alex Morgan diagnosed with MCL sprain

Alex Morgan has been diagnosed with a Grade 1+ strain of her left MCL, according Richard Farley. The striker should only miss 2-4 weeks with her strain, which may allow her to return in time for the NWSL playoffs and if she misses any United States matches, it would only be the September 4 friendly against Mexico.

Observers feared the worst when Morgan collided with Jazmyne Avant in the Portland Thorns' 2-1 loss to the Boston Breakers on Wednesday night. Medics treated her before lifting her onto a stretcher and taking her off the field. She was further examined there before being taken to the locker room. She returned to the bench in the second half, which she watched with her leg in a brace.

Because medics were checking the stability of her knee, some questioned whether Morgan had torn her ACL or MCL, but today's MRI confirmed that she did not tear any ligaments. While the strain is more serious than a basic Grade 1 strain, it is not considered overly serious.

Morgan has eight goals and five assists for the Thorns this season. With Tom Sermanni still trying out new players and feeling out his squad, it would help to have Morgan available for as many matches as possible, but missing one match won't do any serious damage. Sydney Leroux can fill in just fine and with plenty of time before next year's Gold Cup -- which doubles as CONCACAF World Cup qualification -- Sermanni has plenty of time to sort his team out.

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