Steffen named to MLS All-Star team

The last time Zack Steffen played at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, he put on a show. The goalkeeper made eight saves to help the Crew advance in a knockout-round game against Atlanta United in the 2017 playoffs.

His next visit likewise will serve as a big stage. Steffen, the Crew’s second-year starting goalkeeper, was named to Major League Soccer’s 2018 All-Star team, becoming the first Crew player selected since midfielder Wil Trapp in 2016.

The all-star team will face Italian Serie A club Juventus on Aug. 1.

One of the best goalkeeping months in MLS history cemented Steffen’s selection to the squad. The 23-yearold Pennsylvania native recorded five consecutive shutouts in May to help the Crew to a 3-0-2 record. He built his personal shutout streak to a team-record 525 minutes before allowing two goals to Atlanta United on June 13.

Steffen has made 30 saves in 14 starts this season. He made 98 in 34 starts in 2017, his first season as the Crew’s starter.

The celebration of Steffen comes amid some temporary disappointment. He suffered a left knee injury in training last week and underwent a meniscectomy June 22. He missed last Saturday’s game at Los Angeles FC and will not play Saturday at Mapfre Stadium against Real Salt Lake.

His status is unknown for a game next Saturday against the Los Angeles Galaxy, coach Gregg Berhalter said.

Midfielder Federico Higuain is “touch and go” for the Salt Lake game because of a minor left hip injury. Higuain, who is listed as questionable, suffered a bruise against LAFC that hasn’t loosened up.

“As you’re going through the week, you’re just waiting for it to loosen up,” Berhalter said. “I wouldn’t classify it as an injury, but it’s limiting him, for sure.”

Josh Williams (concussion) is questionable, and Mohammed Abu (hamstring), Adam Jahn (ankle) and Steffen (knee) are out.