Atlanta United injury list grows with Ronald Hernandez out for 3-4 months | OneFootball

Atlanta United just cannot catch a break when it comes injuries this season.

The Five Stripes announced on Tuesday that full-back Ronald Hernandez will miss 3-4 months with a medial collateral ligament (MCL) injury in his right knee. The Venezuela international sustained the injury during Saturday's 2-1 defeat to the Columbus Crew, leaving the field in the seventh minute.

Hernandez had been called into La Vinotinto's roster for upcoming friendlies against Malta and Saudi Arabia, but will now remain behind for treatment.

The 24-year-old certainly won't be alone in the Atlanta United physio room, joining Brad Guzan (Achilles), Miles Robinson (Achilles), Ozzie Alonso (ACL), and Andrew Gutman (quad) on the long-term injury list. The Five Stripes are only just welcoming back star striker and fellow Venezuelan Josef Martinez following knee surgery.

Hernandez initially joined Atlanta United on loan from affiliate club Aberdeen at the start of last season before making the transfer permanent. So far, the right-back has made 22 appearances, scoring two goals.

How could Atlanta United line-up in defense?

In better news for the Five Stripes, center-back George Campbell managed another 45 minutes against the Crew as he continues his recovery from an abductor injury.

Gonzalo Pineda's side will now break for international duty until June 19 when they host Inter Miami, giving young full-back Caleb Wiley chance to get over an ankle injury that has kept him out recently.

Should they make it back in time for that fixture, they'll join a four-man defense alongside Alan Franco and Brooks Lennon, with Bobby Shuttleworth in goal. If not, Mikey Ambrose will likely deputize at left-back while Alex De John will continue at center-back.