NYCFC midfielder Keaton Parks undergoes surgery to remove blood clot in leg | OneFootball

New York City FC have announced midfielder Keaton Parks will undergo surgery to remove a blood clot from the popliteal artery in his lower right leg.

The club released an official statement revealing the news on Wednesday, though they didn't specify an exact timeline for Parks' recovery.

Parks underwent the same procedure last November, subsequently missing out on NYCFC's run to becoming MLS Cup champions.

The 24-year-old returned earlier this year and helped the Cityzens reach the semi-finals of the Concacaf Champions League. Since then, Parks has arguably shown his best form since joining NYCFC, scoring two goals in 14 MLS appearances and figuring highly among his teammates in a number of metrics such as progressive passes (1st), shots on target (3rd), and recoveries (5th).

"First and foremost, Keaton’s health is our priority and on behalf of everyone at the club, I’d like to wish him all the best for the surgery and his recovery,” said NYCFC sporting director David Lee. “We’re obviously extremely disappointed to lose a player of his quality. He's a fantastic player and very important to the way we play. As we experienced last season, building a deep squad is vital to withstand these types of situations and so naturally, this will provide opportunities for other players.”

In Parks' absence, the likes of Alfredo Morales, Nicolas Acevedo, and Gedion Zelalem will hold down the fort in the NYCFC midfield.

“We have an incredible medical staff here and Keaton will receive the best possible treatment during his recovery,” Lee added. “We do not yet have a specific timeline on when he will be available and will be guided by his progression through his rehab, but we are confident he will make a full recovery and are looking forward to having him back with the group.”