Philadelphia Union forward CJ Sapong cleared to return to play, available for selection Sunday

Union's Sapong cleared to return to play, available for selection Sunday

CJ Sapong, Philadelphia Union

Philadelphia Union forward C.J. Sapong has been cleared to return to play by Major League Soccer after undergoing an assessment pursuant to the league's Substance Abuse and Behavioral Health (“SABH”) Policy.


Sapong has re-joined the Union for practice, the club announced on Thursday, and will be available to participate in game action effective immediately.



“In compliance with MLS rules, C.J. has willingly participated in the necessary steps to get to this point,” Union technical director Chris Albright said in a statement. “We look forward to having C.J. back in the team and will continue to support him, as we're confident in his commitment both on and off the field.”


The Union travel to face the New York Red Bulls on Sunday evening at Red Bull Arena (5 pm ET, FOX Sports 1 and FOX Deportes).


Sapong joined Philadelphia on Dec. 8, 2014 via a trade with Sporting Kansas City. The Manassas, Virginia native has appeared in six games thus far this season (three starts), notching a goal and an assist.