USMNT World Cup hopeful Sam Vines announces broken tibia that will keep him out of Qatar

• Vines sustains serious injury
• Has undergone surgery
• Out for 3-4 months

WHAT HAPPENED? The left-back had been in contention to make the USMNT World Cup squad after a strong start to the season with Belgian side Royal Antwerp which had brought a call-up to the Stars and Stripes squad for September’s friendlies against Japan and Saudi Arabia. However, he has now confirmed he is set for a long spell on the sidelines due to injury.

WHAT THEY SAID: "Life is full of ups and downs. Unfortunately yesterday I broke my tibia and had to get surgery. The operation went well and I should be back in 3-4 months," he wrote on Instagram. "Upset I missed the chance to be in the World Cup but I will be supporting the boys until the end thank you for all the support. I’ll be back stronger."

THE BIGGER PICTURE: USMNT coach Gregg Berhalter must now look elsewhere for a back-up left-back to Antonee Robinson. Borussia Monchengladbach's Joe Scally could be a candidate, although Barcelona loanee Sergino Dest is also able to play on both flanks.

IN TWO PHOTOS:

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WHAT NEXT FOR THE USMNT? The team's first game of the 2022 World Cup is on November 21 against Wales.