Pair of Galaxy Stars Called Up to International Duty

Besides Gyasi Zardes being called up to the USMNT, two more LA Galaxy stars will be joining their national teams for the upcoming slate of international matches.

Robbie Keane depart for international duty after the Galaxy's match against the Vancouver Whitecaps on June 6th at StubHub Center. Ireland faces England in a friendly match on June 7th before hosting Scotland in a UEFA EURO 2016 qualifying match. Keane will be unavailable for selection during the Galaxy's June 13th match against Columbus Crew SC. The good news is that Keane's inclusion in the Ireland squad seems to signify that his injury troubles are in the past.

Tomorrow, Jaime Penedo and the Panamanian national team are set to start their slate of international friendlies, both of which are against Ecuador. The two nations will face off again on June 6th, which will render Penedo unavailable for selection for the Galaxy's match that night against the Whitecaps.

While these international call-ups reflect well upon the Galaxy, they also cause selection issues and test depth. As the MLS season heats up and the U.S. Open Cup begins to incorporate MLS teams, so does the international schedule. The CONCACAF Gold Cup will present these types of issues not just for the Galaxy, but the entirety of MLS. On the other hand, this represents a great opportunity for some of the Galaxy's younger players to get a chance to shine with the first team while some of the established starters are away.