Xavier Kouassi back in training while recovering from quad strain

On Tuesday, good news emerged from Foxboro: Xavier Kouassi was “a full participant” in Tuesday’s training, according to Revolution Writer and Editor Jeff Lemieux.

Kouassi went down with a quad strain six weeks ago during a dramatic 2-2 draw with New York City FC. The original timetable for his return ran from early June to early July. Kouassi missed more action that fans hoped, though he should re-join the Revolution lineup in the near future.

Per Lemieux, Revolution Head Coach Jay Heaps wants to “be smart” and “not overdo it” with his Designated Player. That may make a Thursday return against the New York Red Bulls a stretch; Heaps isn’t likely to insert Kouassi into a non-league match.

Instead, it seems more realistic for Heaps to play Kouassi during the Revolution’s next league match, scheduled for July 22 against the LA Galaxy.

Either way, the Revolution appear close to regaining Kouassi’s services. His presence will bring added bite to a midfield—and a team—that needs an immediate return to form.