Injury Report: Lampard and Matarrita Return

Mark Booth

Patrick Vieira will have a full squad to choose from in New York City FC’s final game of the regular season.

Frank Lampard and Ronald Matarrita have both been passed fit for the game against Columbus Crew SC at Yankee Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

Although a decision will be taken closer to kick-off as to the pair’s level of involvement, it’s a huge boost for the boss ahead of Decision Day and the Playoffs which follow.

After a month out of action with a muscle problem, Frank will hope to add to his 12 MLS goals, while Mataritta has made a swift recovery from the injury which forced him off at the half against DC United last time out.

Lampard told NYCFC.com: "I feel good, I’ve been training well over the last two weeks and building up.

"I’m really looking forward to getting back in."

“It’s an important game for us, generally. We want to secure second place so if I can work hard this week, force myself into contention and then try and help us to get that second place and then into the playoffs.”

Maxime Chanot and RJ Allen will also be in contention for a place in the 18.

As for the opposition, Columbus are carrying two injuries with Matt Pacifici and Ben Swanson both set to miss the game.

NYCFC know that a win will be enough to clinch a place in the Eastern Conference Semifinals.