Clint Mathis Likely To Retire

As reported by Steven Goff of the Soccer Insider:

“It will probably happen,” one source said. “Knees can’t take the beating anymore.”

Now, that is a quote applicable to most any 30+ MLS player, but I’m afraid the source may be right.

Mathis’ most recent injury was a torn meniscus in his left knee for which he underwent surgery in February. Although apparently injury-free now, he has not been getting minutes. Currently 19th in minutes out of 21 players, only Dema Kovalenko and Eddie Lewis have had less playing time this season.

I have scoured the internet and haven’t found any recent reports of recent injury. In addition, he has not been on the Galaxy’s Weekly Update injury list for several months.

My best guess is that he plans to retire after this season. As I commented on Nathan’s post, Mathis was one of the key players I envisioned leaving to make room for a rumored Ronaldinho trade.

He has been one of my favorite players since he joined the Galaxy in 1998 as a first round draft pick. I loved the temper verve of his younger days and it has been a joy to watch him mature into a smart play maker. My hope is that he will see some more playing time before he calls it quits, if he chooses to retire after this season.

Please share your thoughts in the comments.

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Category: 2010 Season, Player News