Head coach John Herdman has certified Alphonso Davies fit for Canada’s comeback to the World Cup stage against Belgium.
What happened to Davies?
After suffering a hamstring injury against Hertha Berlin on November 5, the Bayern Munich left-back’s participation in Qatar was in doubt.
Davies missed Bayern’s final two games before the mid-season break, and Herdman stated over the weekend that he was unsure when the 22-year-old would return.
However, Herdman has announced Davies is fit to play in Canada’s Group F match against Belgium on Wednesday at Ahmed bin Ali Stadium.
John Herdsman’s statement
“You’ve just got to go through the algorithms they put in front of you to progress to hit top speed, which he’s hit,” Herdman said at Tuesday’s pre-match press conference.
“He’s been clear he wanted to play. He’s been in full training and got that big smile on his face, so that’s great.
“I don’t think there’d be any doubt we’d be starting him, but you’ve got to follow the medical advice. Our goal first and foremost is always the safety of the players.”
As a coach you’re always frustrated when you get the reports in and all the algorithms on returning to play, what they can and can’t do and loadings, et cetera.
“But when you speak to the player you have to look into their eyes and get a sense of what they want, how far they’re willing to push, and you’ve got to ask the questions.
“If not the first game, then what’s the risk for the second game? At the end of the day, he’s fit now, he’s hit his markers, he’s ready to go. He was flying in training yesterday.”
Canada has returned to the World Cup after a 36-year hiatus, the second-longest break of any nation at this year’s tournament behind only Wales (64 years).
The Reds finished first in their CONCACAF qualification group, scoring the most goals (23) and conceding the fewest (seven).
Herdsman other fitness updates
Herdman also gave favorable reports on the fitness of Stephen Eustaquio and Milan Borjan ahead of their match against Belgium, who is rated second in FIFA’s world rankings.
“I think we’re in a position now where we can field our strongest team,” he said. “Everyone’s come through training.
“It’s exciting times for us now – the dark clouds have shifted. This is our last training session together and we’ll all be 100 per cent.”
Canada’s last game against Belgium
Canada’s only previous match with Belgium was a 2-0 defeat in an Ottawa friendly 33 years ago.
