Jared Watts Back with the Boys and Back in Contention
October 2, 2014 - Major League Soccer (MLS)
Colorado Rapids News Release
Colorado Rapids rookie, Jared Watts, returned to full training on Thursday, having recovered from a left hamstring strain which has kept him sidelined for the past five weeks. The 22-year-old sustained the injury during the Rapids' 4-3 home loss to LA Galaxy on August 20.
"It was great, just being back out there, being with the guys," Watts told ColoradoRapids.com. "You know, being a part of that daily grind, you know, I'd missed it, so it was good to get my legs back under me and be a part of that fight and that group this last stretch of the season."
Selected by the Colorado Rapids with the 33rd overall selection at this year's MLS SuperDraft, Watts made his professional debut in the team's third game of the season, at home to Sporting Kansas City. He has since gone on to make a total of 15 appearances, of which 11 have been starts.
"Obviously with today being the first full day back in training, it felt good," Watts said. "I've been working on the side with Brian (Mullan) on my fitness, which has helped a lot, but first day back and I'm now getting touches on the ball. I don't want to rush, but at the same time I'm eager and excited to be back out there."
According to Watts - who has played in midfield as well as central defense - the hamstring feels good and he is glad to put a frustrating period in his rookie season firmly behind him.
"You never want to be injured, or miss any time, especially during this tough stretch. I've felt a little helpless but it's been a source of motivation to get back, fully healed, to be fit and be out there to help out in any way to finish out this season and make a last push."
Watts will have two more training sessions ahead of Sunday's home game against the Seattle Sounders, and may yet work his way into the 18.
Major League Soccer Stories from October 2, 2014
- Alvarez Suspended for One Game by the MLS Disciplinary Committee - Colorado Rapids
- Jared Watts Back with the Boys and Back in Contention - Colorado Rapids
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- Timbers Weekly Update - Portland Timbers
- Sporting KC Faces D.C. United on Friday - Sporting Kansas City
- Sounders FC to Host Startup Weekend - Seattle Sounders FC
- Rapids Re-Sign Second-Year Star Dillon Powers - Colorado Rapids
- Berhalter Attempting Rare MLS Coaching Feat - Columbus Crew SC
- Orlando City Foundation Celebrity Golf Tournament Raises over $40,000 - Orlando City SC
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