Pfeffer Called Up to USMNT U-20 Camp, Friendlies

The Philadelphia Union's midfield depth just got a little thinner, as Zach Pfeffer has been called up to the USMNT U-20 squad. Pfeffer will participate in the team's camp and friendlies against Qatar and Croatia in preparation for this summer's FIFA U-20 World Cup.

The camp will run from April 18th to April 26th, but Pfeffer will still be available for selection for Sunday's match against New England according to a tweet from Union Press Officer Chris Winkler. However, Pfeffer will be unavailable for next week's match against Columbus meaning Jim Curtin's options at attacking midfield will be slim.

Regular starter Cristian Maidana has been struggling with injuries this season and has been unable to start for several matches. With Pfeffer out and Maidana struggling to reach full fitness, Curtin may have to rely on Fred or an out of position Vincent Nogueira to fill in. Fortunately, Maidana has been healthy enough to make substitute appearances the last two matches and could be on track to feature more heavily in the next two weeks.