With the opening match of the 2014 season swiftly approaching, away to the New York Red Bulls this coming Saturday, the Colorado Rapids were delighted to see the smiling Spanish face of midfielder José Mari at training on Monday. He took a full part in practice, as did in-form striker Deshorn Brown, fresh from netting twice on international duty for Jamaica.
Goalkeeper Clint Irwin is approaching full fitness, following a minor quad strain sustained in the preseason friendly with New England Revolution, though he was not pushed 100% on Monday at Dick's Sporting Goods Park.
Marlon Hairston picked up a slight knee injury during Saturday's intrasquad scrimmage, and was restricted to gentle jogging around the field.
Danny Mwanga (hernia surgery) and Davy Armstrong (ACL surgery) both took part in the early stages of the session, before stepping to the side when the squad split for an 8v8 game.
Two players were absent - Joe Nasco is adjusting to life as a 'daddy', after the safe arrival of his daughter Caroline on Saturday, while Marvin Chavez is home tending to family matters.
