Schuler recovery receives boost as defender could return within a month

Chris Schuler's recovery has taken a boost, with the player potentially returning in a month's time, James Edward of the Deseret News reported today.

It's a bit of welcome news: Schuler's injury status has been up in the air for some time after suffering the same foot issues he's had for some time. The primary issue, a bone foot stress response, saw him miss significant time in 2012 and 2011. He'd played all 90 minutes in the first 12 matches of this season, with his last match coming on May 11 in a 2-3 loss against Montreal Impact.

With Schuler's recovery underway, the temptation to spring for a center back during the mid-season has certainly abated for Jason Kreis and Garth Lagerwey. But with Carlos Salcedo out for an estimated two weeks after a gall bladder surgery, and Kwame Watson-Siriboe out for the season, things won't be clearing up immediately.

Aaron Maund and Nat Borchers are currently the only fit center backs available; Chris Wingert is available in the center if needed.