There's little doubt that Saturday night's match vs. Columbus (LIVE at 7pm CT on NBC 5.2) is one of the most important this season for the Fire. Below, find five things you should know heading into the game...
1) Franco Cleared and an Injury Update– In case you missed my tweet Friday night, new Fire striker Guillermo Franco has received his international transfer certificate and P1 Visa, making the former Mexican international available for selection by Frank Klopas Saturday night.
Franco of course played 61 minutes and hit the post in the Fire Reserves 2-1 win over FC Dallas on Tuesday. While the former Monterrey forward admitted to being somewhat tired after the game, he said that he would be ready to play if called upon Saturday.
On Friday, Fire head coach Frank Klopas indicated to reporters that Franco could see time Saturday night.
As for Fire players that have dealt with injuries this week, Arne Friedrich, who came out of last Saturday's game with neck tightness trained all week and looks ready to play. Midfielder Daniel Paladini, who has missed the team's last two matches due to a calf straign, also trained most of the week and Klopas indicated that he'd like likely be avaiable for selection.
While there was good news on those fronts, the Fire manager left veteran midfielder Pavel Pardo's participation in the match in doubt Friday. Having missed last Saturday's game vs. Montreal, Klopas signaled that whether or not the former Mexican international suited up would be a gameday decision.
2) Record vs. Columbus – Much like the Fire’s overall home record this season (10-2-2), the team has historically fared well vs. the Crew at Toyota Park, going 4-1-5 all-time since the stadium’s opening in 2006. The team also currently holds a eight-match unbeaten streak at home vs. the Crew dating back to June 3, 2007.
WATCH: Crew Review and Preview