After opening training camp in both 2014 and 2015 with injuries to starting players, the Portland Timbers finally appeared poised to enter 2016 with a completely healthy roster.
But less than three weeks into the regular season, the Timbers are already dealing with mounting injuries on defense.
Left back Chris Klute (meniscus surgery) has yet to make an appearance for the club. Backup Andy Thoma (knee injury) is out for the next five weeks. And captain Liam Ridgewell went down last Friday with a severe hamstring injury and is expected to miss the next 4-8 weeks.