Chris Richards injury update could be nightmare news for USMNT, Crystal Palace defender

This isn't what anyone associated with the USMNT wanted to see.

Starting center back Chris Richards was playing for Crystal Palace on Tuesday in a League Cup clash with Arsenal.

And with no contact, Richards crumpled to the turf. It appeared to be an injury to his lower right leg.

Richards had to be carted off.

If it's a bad outcome here, Richards' World Cup could be in jeopardy.

It'd be terrible news for the United States' chances at their home tournament in 2026.

Richards is a no-doubt starter in the center of defense, and without him, things start to get a bit more dicey.

The other center backs projected in the latest ESPN big board for the USMNT's World Cup roster are Tim Ream, Mark McKenzie, Miles Robinson and Auston Trusty.

All hopes will be that Richards is OK.

If he's out long-term, though, someone is going to have to step up.