When you have nine players out on international duty, you have to do some roster shuffling and Inter Miami is in that exact spot.
Most of its starting lineup will be out for the next two matches this month and likely one more in October due to being called up to their home country’s national teams.
Inter Miami has already taken some steps to fill the gaps.
Let’s get into it.
Inter Miami Signs NEXT Pro Midfielder
The Herons have promoted central midfielder Lawson Sunderland to the senior side and signed him to a contract through the 2023 season.
He is the 11th homegrown signing in club history and his contract includes options through the 2026 season.
"I want to thank God for this amazing opportunity, and I want to thank my family, friends and teammates for always being there for me throughout my journey. The hard work is just starting!"Lawson Sunderland
It won’t be the first time Sunderland has appeared on the first-team side for Inter Miami.
He played against St. Louis City SC in Missouri on July 15.
For Inter Miami II, Sunderland has made 21 appearances — including 18 starts and three goals and one assist during the 2023 season.
Sunderland joined Inter Miami II before the start of the 2022 MLS NEXT Pro season and made his debut with the side against Orlando City SC B on April 10.
In 2022, Sunderland had 17 starts and 19 appearances for Inter Miami II. He notched a pair of goals and a pair of assists in those appearances.
Prior to joining Inter Miami II, Sunderland spent time in Spain, playing for UE Sant Andreu, CF Damm, CE Sabadell and Levante UD.
He also spent one season with the Portland Timbers’ academy team during the 2017-18 season.
Sunderland has also been called up for the U.S. men’s youth national team after being called up for the U-18 squad.