Ibeagha returns, Thorarinsson questionable; Deila laments waste of “big chances”

In today’s pregame press conference ahead of the club’s Saturday game against FC Cincinnati, New York City FC manager Ronny Deila briefed the press on injuries. The Norwegian gaffer announced that Sebastien Ibeagha has returned to team training following a long absence due to a hamstring injury. However, midfielder Gudmundur Thorarinsson sustained what has been called a “twisted ankle” in training, leaving his future availability in question.

Gedion Zelalem remains out with a knee injury (per usual).

Other than injury news, Deila stressed that the team must start converting “big chances” when they are presented and emphasized what he considers a strong chance to score goals. “Clean shots inside the box in front of the goal,” Deila told the press. “And also you are 1-v-1 with the goalkeeper or when you have the first chance.”

Deila specifically pointed to Keaton Parks’ miss early against D.C. United. “Of course, when Keaton missed, that’s a big, big chance. When you get a cross and you’re standing in front 6 or 7 yards and you have a clean, clean shot and you miss...”

Ouch.

Of course, we all love Parks and what he brings to NYCFC in the midfielder. None of us, however, can defend that miss.