Martino said he doesn’t think Almiron’s injury is serious

March 11, 2018 Atlanta: Atlanta United midfielder Miguel Almiron and forward Josef Martinez celebrate Almiron’s goal against D.C. United for a 2-0 lead during the second half in a MLS soccer match on Sunday, March 11, 2018, in Atlanta. Martinez scored the first goal of the game on the way to a 3-1 victory in the home opener.   Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Credit: ccompton@ajc.com

Credit: ccompton@ajc.com

March 11, 2018 Atlanta: Atlanta United midfielder Miguel Almiron and forward Josef Martinez celebrate Almiron’s goal against D.C. United for a 2-0 lead during the second half in a MLS soccer match on Sunday, March 11, 2018, in Atlanta. Martinez scored the first goal of the game on the way to a 3-1 victory in the home opener. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Atlanta United manager Gerardo Martino said he doesn't think the shoulder injury sustained by Miguel Almiron in Saturday's 1-1 draw with NYCFC at Yankee Stadium is serious, but they'll know more in the next few hours.

Almiron was subbed out at the beginning of the second half of Saturday’s game at NYCFC. He was replaced by Romario Williams.

Almiron sustained an injury to his left shoulder in the second minute of the game when he was tackled from behind by NYCFC’s Alexander Ring. Almiron clearly favored the shoulder the remainder of the half.

Almiron is an MVP candidate this season who has six goals and six assists.

Though Atlanta United scored without Almiron -- Josef Martinez notched his league-leading 13th goal in the 48th minute -- the team had trouble breaking through NYCFC’s relentless pressure without the midfielder.

Goalkeeper Brad Guzan noted that it’s common for Almiron to receive a pass near the top of the penalty box and dribble all the way to the opponent’s penalty box. Guzan said he spoke with Almiron in the locker room after the game and that he seemed to be in good spirits.

Martinez also sustained an injury to his left ankle during the game in the first half, but he was able to come back on and finish the game. Martino said he thinks that Martinez is fine.

Atlanta United plays at Columbus on Wednesday.