Sounders striker Jordan Morris, who hasn’t played since re-injuring his ankle 12 days ago in the home opener, is back in Friday night’s starting lineup against Atlanta United FC. Expect Morris to be given a short leash, with Will Bruin ready to log extended minutes from a Sounders bench that’s about as deep as you’ll ever see it.
Coach Brian Schmetzer had said Thursday that his returning national team players would all play, either as starters or substitutes. Clint Dempsey is the highest profile of the subs in this one, with defender Roman Torres also not starting. Nicolas Lodeiro is getting the start despite the long flight back from Uruguay earlier this week.