D.C. United today announced that midfielder Lewis Neal has undergone an adductor release procedure to the right groin and a laparoscopic abdominal repair to the lower right abdominals. The operations were performed by surgical specialist Dr. L. Michael Brunt of Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, Mo. The timeframe of Neal’s return is 6-8 weeks.
In his second season in MLS, Neal has appeared in one game, logging 20 minutes as a substitute in a 2-1 loss to the Columbus Crew on March 23. Last season, Neal featured in 18 matches (7 starts), notching two goals – including the game-winning, playoff-clinching strike in a 3-2 win vs. the Crew on Oct. 20, 2012 – and one assist. A native of Leicester, England, Neal was previously with USL PRO side Orlando City SC before signing with the Black-and-Red on March 13, 2012.
D.C. United takes on the Portland Timbers on May 25, tickets available online
