Orlando City Midfielder Matías Pérez García to Miss LA Galaxy Game Due to Suspension

Orlando City attacking midfielder Matias Perez Garcia has been suspended by the MLS Disciplinary Committee for “violent conduct” after tangling with Felipe Martins in the 42^nd minute of the Lions’ 1-0 win Sunday. After being run over from behind by Felipe, MPG fell awkwardly and hurt himself, kicking out at the Red Bulls midfielder, as shown in the video.

Perez Garcia received a one-game suspension and will miss Saturday’s home match against the LA Galaxy. He was also fined an undisclosed amount.

The suspension puts Jason Kreis in a bind, without a true No. 10 player available. Kaká is unlikely to be ready to go by Saturday and even if he was, would not be 90-minute match fit. MPG can play the No. 10 and did well at the top of the 4-4-2 diamond formation on Sunday against New York, creating a team-high three scoring chances and leading the team with six tackles. He also drew three fouls, tallied an interception and a clearance, and fired two shots on the day.

Kreis could go back to the flat 4-4-2 or try to play someone like Will Johnson, Giles Barnes, or Luis Gil at the top of the diamond. Attacking midfielders are in short supply at the moment, and Pierre Da Silva could be recalled from loan to OCB. We’ll just have to wait and see how it plays out.