Landon Donovan withdraws from the U.S. Men’s National Soccer Team

CHICAGO (Nov. 7, 2011) – Landon Donovan has withdrawn from the U.S. Men’s National Team roster for the upcoming friendly against France on Nov. 11 at the Stade de France. No replacement will be named at this time. The team arrived in Paris this afternoon, and will begin training Tuesday morning.

"The plan was to have Landon come in for the match against France and then return to the LA Galaxy in preparation for MLS Cup, but after further discussion Landon expressed his desire to stay in Los Angeles," said U.S. Men’s National Team head coach Jurgen Klinsmann. "While my preference was to have Landon with us for this important match, I respect his decision. I’m very happy with the progress this team is making and the commitment they have shown in each and every camp. We look forward to the challenge of the next two games."

The U.S. will first face France on Nov. 11 in Paris. Kickoff at the famed Stade de France is set for 3 p.m. ET (9 p.m. local time) .

Four days later, the U.S. plays Slovenia for the first time since the 2-2 draw in the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Coverage from Stozice Stadium in Ljubljana begins at 1 p.m. ET (6 p.m. local) and fans can follow both matches live on ussoccer.com’s MatchTracker and Twitter @ussoccer.

U.S. ROSTER BY POSITION:

GOALKEEPERS (2) : Bill Hamid (D.C.United), Tim Howard (Everton)

DEFENDERS (7) : Carlos Bocanegra (Rangers), Timmy Chandler (Nürnberg), Steve Cherundolo (Hannover 96), Clarence Goodson (Brondby), Alfredo Morales (Hertha Berlin), Michael Orozco Fiscal (San Luis), Oguchi Onyewu (Sporting Lisbon)

MIDFIELDERS (9) : Kyle Beckerman (Real Salt Lake), Michael Bradley (Chievo Verona), Clint Dempsey (Fulham), Maurice Edu (Rangers), Fabian Johnson (Hoffenheim), Jermaine Jones (Schalke 04), Robbie Rogers (Columbus Crew), Brek Shea (FC Dallas), Danny Williams (Hoffenheim)

FORWARDS (3) : Jozy Altidore (AZ Alkmaar), DaMarcus Beasley (Puebla), Edson Buddle (Ingolstadt)