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McKennie doesn't dress for qualifier after violating rules

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) - Midfielder Weston McKennie did not dress for Sunday night's World Cup qualifier against Canada after violating team COVID-19 rules.

McKennie, who plays for Juventus, had started Thursday night's opening 0-0 draw at El Salvador and is among the top American players.

'œUnfortunately, I am suspended for tonight's match due to a violation of team COVID-19 protocols,'ť McKennie said in a statement he posted on Instagram. 'œI am sorry for my actions. I will be cheering hard for the boys tonight and hope to be back with the team soon.'ť

McKennie was dropped for Juventus' derby at Torino on April 3 by coach Andrea Pirlo. McKennie and teammates Paolo Dybala did not dress, and Italian media reported the reason was a party at McKennie's residence in Turin that violated Italian COVID-19 restrictions.

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