American defender A.J. Soares struggling with a concussion

One month after suffering a concussion, A.J. Soares has yet to return to the field for Viking FK.

The former New England Revolution defender last played on Jun. 28 in 3-1 home win over Sarpsborg 08. Though he went the distance on that day, it was later determined that Soares had sustained a concussion during the match.

Head coach Kjell Jonevret addressed the situation on Thursday, telling local newspaper Rogalands avis, "I must admit, the situation with A.J. worries me. But he was at least with us last game."

Soares has been very good for Viking since moving to the Tippeligaen in Feb. 2015. Playing 919 minutes so far, the American has helped Viking to fourth place, just one spot below Bob Bradley's Stabaek. A major part of the team's success has been the defense. Viking has only allowed 22 goals through 17 games, the third best record in the league.