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FC Dallas has adjustments to make for Montreal

Apr 13, 2012 - 7:26 PM Frisco, TX (Sports Network) - FC Dallas coach Schellas Hyndman was forced to recall Jackson from his loan to Brazilian side Cruzeiro this week, as Ricardo Villar joined fellow midfielder David Ferreira on the injury list.

With 2010 Major League Soccer MVP Ferreira yet to play this season and out at least another month after additional surgery, Villar held an important role in midfield in his first season with the club.

Villar suffered a mild ankle sprain last weekend in a 1-0 victory over the New England Revolution, forcing Hyndman to recall versatile Jackson from his loan ahead of Saturday's league match against the Montreal Impact.

"We really felt it was important we strengthen our depth in the midfield as much as possible," Hyndman said.

Jackson still has to pass a physical before he can train or play in games, but Hyndman believes he will be able to transition into the squad when ready.

"He's a player who knows our system and our players," Hyndman said, "and I expect his transition back into MLS will be very smooth."

For now, Hyndman will have to juggle his lineup with Villar out this week. The Hoops turned to Bobby Warshaw off the bench last weekend.

Hyndman also has selection issues in defense where George John is questionable following a concussion last week. He took a ball to the face, and had to leave the match against the Revolution.

"I'm feeling alright," John said. "There is kind of a league-wide protocol when you have a head injury, so we're working through that. Hopefully, I'll come back sooner rather than later."

Regardless of the moves, Hyndman will expect three points at FC Dallas Stadium against the expansion Impact.

Dallas (2-2-1) is winless on the road, but has two wins and a draw at home. On the flip side, Montreal (1-4-1) has a win and a draw at home, but has lost all four road games in its first season.

Montreal does bring some momentum to Dallas after its first-ever win, 2-1 over winless Toronto FC last weekend as rookie Andrew Wenger scored the winner.

"It's a big moment and a big win for the club, the fans, the city and the players, but the reality is that the work is just getting started," Impact head coach Jesse Marsch said.

"We're all pleased, happy and excited to get to this moment, but I think our players are so well-grounded that they understand that it's about this whole process and pushing this thing along."

Even with Dallas short-handed in midfield, Marsh is concerned with the wingers on Hyndman's squad, especially Brek Shea.

"They play with true wingers and they are a threat offensively," Marsch said. "Brek Shea is a real threat from the wing, so we have to be able to do a better job in one on one situations.

"We just have to deal better with plays from wide positions because that is where they are dangerous."