Manchester City goalkeeper Zack Steffen has withdrawn from the USA squad for their June fixtures, throwing his World Cup chances into doubt.
Steffen has been the US men's national team's first-choice goalkeeper in recent seasons, but injury and form issues have seen him lose his place to Arsenal-bound shot-stopper Matt Turner this season. Steffen, who played nine times for City this season, had the chance to re-establish his claim for the No.1 jersey ahead of the World Cup for the June fixtures but has now withdrawn from the squad.
The USMNT say Steffen has withdrawn for family reasons, with New York City FC goalkeeper Sean Johnson called up in his place. The US face friendlies against Morocco and Uruguay, before CONCACAF Nations League fixtures with Grenada and El Salvador.
After that, the US have no scheduled fixtures before their World Cup opener against one of Ukraine, Scotland or Wales as they compete in England's group at the World Cup.
There is an international break in September, where they are likely to schedule some warm-up fixtures and Steffen will have one last chance to stake his claim for a World Cup starting spot.
However, with his game-time at City limited to cup appearances, Steffen may now only play a handful of times for club and country before that World Cup opener for the US on November 21.
