[AMERICAN ABROAD] U.S. national team midfielder Clint Dempsey's knee injury was not as serious as first thought. He suffered moderate damage to a ligament in his right knee, and the injury will not require surgery. Fulham expects Dempsey to be back in action prior to the end of the season.

The report from Fulham followed an MRI evaluation.  Dempsey got the injury during Sunday's 2-0 loss at Blackburn.  The club expects Dempsey to be back in action prior to the end of the season.

"The news about Clint's injury is positive, especially given the fact that he will not require surgery," said U.S. coach Bob Bradley. "We are confident that Clint will be ready to be an important part of our team during the World Cup."

The U.S. team medical staff has been in contact with Fulham on a daily basis and will continue to monitor his progress in the coming months.