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Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernández returns to LA Galaxy training

LA Galaxy coach Gregg Vanney confirmed that the Mexican forward is back on the training ground for the first time this year.

Estados UnidosUpdate:
‘Chicharito’: “Algo decidí bien para que después el ganador del Balón de Oro decidiera venir a la MLS”
Kirby LeeUSA TODAY Sports

It has been a difficult start to the season for LA Galaxy. Greg Vanney’s side has struggled to forge a cohesive style of play in their opening four games, recording three draws and a defeat to leave them just one point off the bottom of the Western Conference.

One of the notable absentees in their first games has been Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernández, who has not been able to make the Galaxy squad due to injury. After scoring just twice in those opening four games, Vanney is relying on Mexico’s all-time top goalscorer to add some much-need firepower to his side’s attack.

AS USA reports that, after a spell on the sidelines, the Mexican striker returned to training on Thursday as he makes tentative steps back towards first team contention. On his return he did not train with the rest of the group and instead did his own fitness work, taking every precaution to avoid a set-back.

Our Los Angeles correspondent, Rodrigo Serrano, spoke to Vanney earlier today about Hernández’s return from injury and when he might be back on the pitch.

“Chicha returned to the training environment today,” Vanney revealed. “It is difficult for him to be there this weekend even though he has made great progress, but he’s working to return and should be ready next week.”

This means that the former Manchester United, Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen star could be available next weekend to face Héctor Herrera’s Houston Dynamo.

LA Galaxy still looking for first win of the season

This weekend the Galaxy will host second-placed Seattle Sounders at the Dignity Health Sports Park. Seattle have picked up an impressive 10 points in five games so far this season and are only behind the surprise package of the Western Conference, St. Louis City.

LA Galaxy will hope that a return to home soil will inspire their first win of the season and close the gap on rivals Austin, San Jose Earthquakes, Minnesota United and Portland Timbers. Seattle are currently level on points with last years’s MLS Cup champions LAFC, who remained undefeated at this early stage.