New England Soccer Today

Nguyen: ‘Can’t Wait to Get Started’

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A familiar face was seen at Revolution camp on Wednesday, albeit one with a slightly different look.

Lee Nguyen, who was in camp with the U.S. Men’s National Team earlier this year, returned to the club he scored 18 goals for last season – and sporting a noticeably-shorter haircut.

“I can’t wait to get started,” Nguyen told revolutionsoccer.net on Thursday. “I feel good. I took a little time off, just trying to rest up a bit, but I feel alright.”

That rest was needed, in part, due to a groin injury that nagged Nguyen during National Team camp. Though a prognosis hasn’t been provided by the club, Heaps told the media last week that he isn’t going to hurry last year’s team MVP back.

“We don’t want to rush to any timetables, because we want to make sure that (Nguyen and Jermaine Jones) are healing, and that they come back at the right time without pushing them,” Heaps said. “But both players are progressing well.”

Heaps also disclosed that Nguyen underwent a “procedure” that was preventative in nature, though specifics were not initially provided.

While Nguyen probably won’t get the chance to play in Saturday’s preseason finale, he mentioned that he does like what he’s seen from his teammates so far this winter. And one teammate that’s caught his attention is none other than Juan Agudelo.

“He’s a great player and he brings a lot of quality,” Nguyen said. “He plays at a top level when he’s over there. I think he’s going to bring a different dynamic to that target #9 for us. I think it’ll be tough for the other teams to try to mark down on either him or Charlie (Davies). ”

Though Nguyen is certainly eyeing the opportunity to play with the likes of Agudelo and Davies, the thought alone of returning to training with his teammates is enough to make the creative midfielder smile.

“It feels good (to be) with the guys,” Nguyen said. “(It’s) like old times – straight with the banter.”

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