Injury boost for USMNT star McKennie as Juventus boss Allegri says knock is a 'small thing'

Weston McKennie hobbled off the pitch for Juventus on Saturday against Atalanta, causing a potential injury headache for an already struggling side, but Bianconeri boss Massimiliano Allegri claims the knock is only a "small thing".

The U.S. national team midfielder (USMNT) has been in strong form of late for the Old Lady as well as for his country.

However the 23-year-old had to be replaced against Atalanta after taking a blow to his knee.

What happened?

McKennie embarked on a long run into the box midway through the second half with his team trailing 1-0.

The midfielder clashed with Atalanta defender Berat Djimsiti and came out appearing to favour his knee.

After he was examined on the pitch by Juve's medical staff, McKennie hobbled off the pitch and was replaced by Moise Kean in the 64th minute.

Juve would go on to lose 1-0 to Atalanta, dropping down to eighth in the Serie A table.

What has been said?

Allegri has now been discussing the fitness of his players ahead of a meeting with Salernitana on Tuesday.

He has said of his American star: “For McKennie, it should be a small thing."

Allegri added on Euro 2020 winner Federico Chiesa, who is set to be sidelined until January with a muscle complaint picked up in the same game against Atalanta: "Chiesa is already writing a letter to Santa Claus. We will see him again after the holidays.”

McKennie's strong form

The midfielder has been in good form for Juventus and the USMNT in recent weeks, scoring for his country earlier this month in a key 2-0 win over Mexico in World Cup qualifying.

McKennie has also started eight of Juve's last nine games, scoring two goals.

Further reading

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