Not all problems are bad problems. In fact, Bob Bradley has a very good problem. He has six spots in midfield and attack that need filled in his LAFC team each week. And he has 10 very capable and talented players at his disposal for said spots.

Carlos Vela and Maro Ureña have both returned from the World Cup and been in training all week. André Horta, the Club’s third Designated Player, has been training with LAFC since July 1, and with the opening of the secondary transfer window on July 10 is now available for selection.

Add to that mix, Adama Diomande, who has nine goals in seven matches to start his MLS career, along with Benny Feilhaber, Lee Nguyen, Latif Blessing, Diego Rossi, Mark-Anthony Kaye, and Eduard Atuesta, and Bradley’s problem is much more desirable than the converse.

That being said, I’m glad he’s the one doing the choosing and not me.

“We’re excited. Training today was really good. All along we’ve worked to build a roster that gives us different options, that gives us depth,” Bradley said after training at LAFC’s Performance Center. “Of course, that means that in different moments there are decisions in terms of the best way to start, but also flexibility in terms of different ways of playing. So that’s all good.”

Asked which way he was leaning in his lineup selection with the new options available, Bradley wasn’t in the mood to tip his hand. Instead, he touted the team’s depth once again, while also being sure to acknowledge the players that stepped up in light of the World Cup absentees.

“Everybody comes back in a different way, physically and mentally. You use training as a little bit of a gauge. It’s also important to recognize guys that have been playing well lately. And make sure all that is included as we figure out from game to game what is the best way of going about things,” Bradley said.

With the Portland Timbers coming to town (July 15 at 3pm PT | ESPN) on the back of a 13-match unbeaten run in all competitions, Bradley assured those listening that whatever team he chooses will be prepared and willing come Sunday.

“We know the importance of games in the Western Conference. Portland has gone through a great stretch, I think it’s 13 games without a loss. I think as a team, they have a lot of different dimensions. They’re organized, they’re athletic, they’re good on set pieces, and very good on the counter.

“We certainly have a lot of work to do, but we look forward to it.”

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