MLS' Donovan tests positive for swine flu

LOS ANGELES -- Los Angeles Galaxy forward Landon Donovan has tested positive for swine flu, although the team is optimistic he can play Saturday night.

Donovan will be evaluated by a doctor Friday and Saturday, the Galaxy said. Donovan, David Beckham and Chris Birchall were all given the day off from training Friday after returning from games with their national teams.

The Galaxy are home Saturday night against the Seattle Sounders.

"We're still hoping he'll be available and ready to go," team spokesman Justin Pearson said. "Even Landon said it hasn't hit him as hard as the normal flus have hit him."

The Los Angeles Times first reported Donovan's condition on its Web site. He told the newspaper he had been feeling ill since joining the U.S. national soccer team in Florida on Sunday.

Donovan is not infectious, coach and general manager Bruce Arena told the Times. Arena said Donovan is believed to have contracted the virus from two Galaxy staff members who came down with it during last weekend's game at New England.

The team's chiropractor and administrator have both returned to work, Pearson said.