COMMERCE CITY — It’s time for the Colorado Rapids to give coach Pablo Mastroeni “a problem.”

The MLS-leading Rapids will be without two of their high-priced stars Saturday against the Eastern Conference-leading Philadelphia Union. Midfielder Jermaine Jones (U.S.) and winger Shkëlzen Gashi (Albania) are with their national teams, opening the door to players fighting for minutes.

“It’s a great opportunity for guys to step up and say, ‘You know what? Whilst these guys are away, I’m going to make sure I give the head coach a selection problem,’ ” Rapids assistant coach John Spencer said Wednesday.

Midfielder Dillon Powers started in the No. 10 role in the first five games, with the Rapids going 2-2-1. A hamstring injury kept him out of the lineup in an April 13 win at Kansas City, then he was replaced by Jones, who debuted April 16. He hasn’t started since.

“It’s definitely an opportunity for me,” Powers said this week. “I plan on making the most of it.” Related Articles May 23, 2016 Kevin Doyle changes travel plans, available Saturday for Colorado Rapids

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Jones and Powers offer different styles. This year, Powers has completed a higher percentage of passes while Jones has been more effective winning aerial balls. Jones has been more productive, notching three goals and two assists to Powers’ one goal.

Jones also brings an edge to the Rapids. They have never lost with him in the lineup (5-0-2).

“I’m not Jermaine,” Powers said. “I’m myself, and I have my own game. I’m not going to try to change who I am.”

Spencer said Powers has a good brain and technical ability but has been unfortunate this season.

“He’s a super footballer. He’s proved that early in the season,” Spencer said.

On the wings, Mastroeni’s options include Luis Solignac, Dominique Badji, Dillon Serna, Conor Doyle and Marlon Hairston, who appeared there as a substitute last weekend. No matter who is selected, Spencer said the approach stays the same: Press high, and get after teams.

“Everybody’s got to step in,” Spencer said. “If you looked at the games throughout the season so far, I don’t think there’s been any one guy you can say has been head and shoulders above everybody.”