Colorado Rapids' Shane O'Neill set to return from injury

Colorado Rapids defender Shane O'Neill is set to return to the lineup after a nearly two-month absence with a knee injury.

What happened?

O'Neill has been out for nine straight matches with a sprained MCL in his right knee. The Rapids have conceded 24 goals in his absence, going 1-8-0 without him. With O'Neill in the lineup this season, Colorado are 6-4-6 with a 1.25 GAA.

Why it matters for Colorado Rapids

O'Neill's return is a major boost for the team, who are currently 11th in Major League Soccer with 41 points from 34 games. Their recent form has been DLDLW, and they have a goal difference of -12, having scored 44 goals and conceded 56. They are 22 points behind leaders San Diego, and their next fixture is against San Diego on August 23.

What comes next?

Rapids head coach Pablo Mastroeni said O'Neill's fitness is the only thing holding him back from returning to the lineup. O'Neill took part in full practice on Tuesday and said his knee feels "pretty good, close to 100 percent". The team is also awaiting the debut of veteran English Premier League defender Zat Knight, who is likely to make his debut on September 19 at Real Salt Lake.