CJ Sapong cleared to play

CJ Sapong has returned to practice and been cleared to play against the Red Bulls this Sunday, the team announced today.

Until today's announcement, all indications were that Sapong would be in rehab until his hearing on June 11.

Sapong had a hearing scheduled for May 11 that was continued while he was undergoing MLS-mandated treatment. Still has a hearing June 11

— Matthew De George (@sportsdoctormd) May 21, 2015

Sapong was arrested for DUI and reckless driving on May 1st, the night before the Union's 1-0 loss to Toronto FC. Prior to the arrest, the young forward was beginning to round into form. After coming off the bench to score the equalizer in his team's 1-1 draw with New York City FC, Sapong started in consecutive games.

Match fitness pending, Sapong could be in line for immediate minutes. Jim Curtin has all but ruled out a start for Fernando Aristeguieta this weekend, and he's mentioned his uneasiness with relying on Conor Casey too much. If Casey does start, Sapong could still see the field over a faltering Andrew Wenger.