Onalfo Expects Ashley Cole Back in the First-Team Soon

LA Galaxy manager Curt Onalfo says that he is extremely happy to see Ashley Cole close to returning to first-team action.


The former Chelsea left back is regarded as one of the best players in the MLS. He is certainly required by LA Galaxy at this moment, as the club have lost star players like Steven Gerrard and Robbie Keane in one off-season. The absence of these two star players puts a lot of pressure on the existing names, as the club underwent a managerial change after almost a decade. Bruce Arena left the club to be replaced byOnalfo.

After starting the campaign with a surprise defeat against FC Dallas, the club are now hoping for a change of fortunes when they take on Portland Timbers in the next game. It will not be long beforeCole makes his return to the starting lineup, as he has just resumed training.Cole is one of the few players who can make a difference along with Gyasi Zardes.

The latter has also been on the sidelines. Even though it is highly unlikely that the two players will be able to make it to the starting line-up for the game against Portland Timbers, they can certainly be expected when LA Galaxy make a trip to face Real Salt Lake.

“It’s a good sign. We just have to be smart with it. Those are day by day," said Onalfo. LA Galaxy are one of the most successful teams in MLS, but the club are expected to go through a period of transition as a result of the numerous changes taking place in the dugout and on the pitch. Finishing in the play-offs may seem like a proper campaign for the club, rather than challenging for the MLS Cup itself. Last season, the club were unable to progress past the conference semifinals.