Seattle Sounders’ Schmetzer surprised at Ruidíaz Copa America omission
Let it be known that Seattle Sounders head coach Brian Schmetzer is not one to look a gift horse in the mouth. Not now, not ever.
And not when it comes to star forward Raúl Ruidíaz returning to his club, a major boost for a Seattle Sounders side that has had a very strong start to the MLS season.
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Ruidíaz was a surprise omission from Peru’s national team ahead of Copa America, which begins on June 13 when host Brazil and Venezuela meet in the tournament’s opener. Peru is in Group B alongside Brazil, Venezuela, Colombia and Ecuador. They were not favorites to advance to the knockout rounds.
“Well, look he made a substitute appearance the first game, didn’t play the second game. I was surprised, Schmetzer said on Friday in his weekly media availability.
“I was surprised because Raul has been in a really good run of form, I mean he’s scoring goals so that was surprising. I am not going to look a gift horse in the mouth and I think it is going to be good for us. And he should be available for that LA Galaxy game.”
The Seattle Sounders play the LA Galaxy on June 19.
So far this season, Ruidiaz has been one of the most influential players in all of MLS. His ability in the final third is a major reason why the Seattle Sounders are atop the league and the current favorites for the Supporters Shield.
Currently, the Sounders have a 5-0-3 record (18 points), making them the only team in MLS without a loss.
Ruidíaz has six goals and an assist so far this season, making him the second-highest goal scorer in MLS behind Galaxy star Chicharito (seven goals).
In now his fourth season in MLS, Ruidíaz has 58 starts in 61 appearances. He has 39 goals and nine assists. He transferred to MLS from Liga MX club Monarcas Morelia. The 30-year old forward has four goals in 43 appearances for Peru.
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