Lion Links: 2/23/21

Happy Tuesday, everyone. I’m in full SheBelieves Cup mode, and with things going well for the USWNT so far, I’ve been in a good mood lately. Before we get started, lets wish a happy 31st birthday to Orlando City goalkeeper Pedro Gallese! Now, there’s plenty to talk about today, so here we go.

Morris Injures ACL

Jordan Morris has suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury while on loan with Swansea City. While the injury was not explicitly stated to be a tear, Swansea boss Steve Cooper did confirm that the damage was to the ACL and that his season was over, so it’s safe to assume that a tear did indeed occur. That will put his time frame for recovery at roughly six to eight months, so he should be back for both the end of the MLS season and the beginning of World Cup qualifying. Regardless, his absence is a big blow for the Seattle Sounders and the United States Men’s National Team, and we wish him a speedy recovery.

Fans Could be Back for Final EPL Match Day

The United Kingdom government has confirmed plans for outdoor events impacted by COVID-19 to resume on May 17, potentially opening the door for fans to be present at the final round of Premier League fixtures on May 23. In addition, test events will begin on April 12, so the Carabao Cup final could also see a small number of fans in attendance on April 26, if the game is chosen to be a test event. As long as infection rates continue to drop, Premier League teams will be able to host either 10,000 fans or 25% of their stadium’s seating capacity on the final day, whichever number is lower.

MLS Transfer Roundup

There are several noteworthy transfers to cover within MLS. First, Atlanta United has signed Franco Ibarra from Argentinos Juniors. The 19-year-old defensive midfielder will occupy an international slot and help provide cover after Eric Remedi being traded to the San Jose Earthquakes.

Additionally, Nashville SC has acquired Nick Hinds from the Seattle Sounders while sending $50,000 in General Allocation Money the other way. The left back will provide additional depth for a Nashville defense that gave up the third-fewest goals in the league last year.

Finally, FC Cincinnati is rumored to be in talks to sign Newcastle United midfielder Kyle Scott. The 23-year-old is a former U.S. youth international and would be another signing in an already busy Cincinnati off-season.

Winley Named Diversity Chief

Major League Soccer has named Sola Winley its new executive vice president and chief diversity, equity and inclusion officer. Reporting directly to Don Garber, Winley’s job will be to help increase the number of underrepresented groups throughout various levels of the league offices, and the clubs themselves. He will also be in charge of initiatives to increase exposure to, and participation in, soccer in underserved communities. The hiring is part of the league’s efforts to combat racism and social injustice, which have been stepped up following several initiatives that were announced at the beginning of last summer.

Free Kicks

• Exploria Stadium is being established as a big soccer destination.
• Catarina Macario has returned to Olympique Lyonnais ahead of the team’s UEFA Women’s Champions League Round of 16 match.
• Check out this great piece from Stars and Stripes FC on Margaret Purce.
• Clarence Seedorf has voiced criticism of the lack of black managers in European soccer.

That’ll do it for me. Y’all stay safe out there.