Josef Martinez missed almost all of the 2020 season with a torn ACL, but the Atlanta United star gave Five Stripes fans some encouraging content as he eyes a much-anticipated 2021 return.
The video Martinez posted to his Twitter account from Atlanta's practice facility shows him doing a simple kicking drill with a trainer, which might not seem like a lot, but certainly represents a positive sign as the standout striker continues his rehab from the devastating knee injury that he suffered in Atlanta's first league match of the season against Nashville SC back on Feb. 29.
Without the services of their top forward, Atlanta United stumbled this season, missing the Audi 2020 MLS Cup Playoffs and looking listless for lengthy stretches in the attack. Some of that had to do with roster shortcomings outside of Martinez, but it can't be overstated how much a difference he can make alone when he's in the lineup.
Martinez is one of the most ruthless, efficient strikers in the history of the league, racking up an incredible 77 goals in 81 starts, including his 31-goal season from 2018, which also saw Atlanta win MLS Cup.
For Atlanta fans, he can't come back soon enough. Hopefully this video is a sign he'll be healthy and ready to go come 2021.
