Phelan using his head on injury

FOXBOROUGH - Most of the play is a blur for midfielder Pat Phelan. In the 84th minute of the Revolution's SuperLiga group-play match against Pachuca July 16, Phelan was in front of the goal, attempting to head away the ball. He leaped and collided with teammate Sainey Nyassi. Phelan was knocked unconscious and carted off the field. He regained consciousness and was taken to Massachusetts General Hospital for evaluation.

Phelan suffered a concussion and was listed as questionable before last night's SuperLiga semifinal against Atlante.

"I remember everything except the collision and hitting the ground, which is good," Phelan said. "They say the more you remember, the less severe it is. I don't remember the collision or hitting the ground, but I could hear people calling for the trainer and stuff like that."

Phelan was able to take advantage of the Major League Soccer All-Star break last week to continue his recovery. He missed the Revolution's 1-1 SuperLiga tie with Chivas USA July 20. He is optimistic that his return may be sooner rather than later.

This week, Phelan returned to practice and participated in light drills, and has increased his jogging time. Before he can play, doctors have recommended he train as close to game speed as possible.

"It's tough to sit around for a week and do nothing," Phelan said. "It's a nice break, but I'm upset I can't play [last night]. But it's better to be safe than sorry."

Phelan said he has been in similar situations, and while he wants to get back on the field, he will be cautious because it is a head injury.

"I've always been one to be aggressive even if I do have an injury, but I won't be stupid," he said.

Star among stars

Revolution coach Steve Nicol isn't bad when it comes to leading the MLS All-Stars. Last season, Nicol led the All-Stars to a 2-0 win against Celtic FC, and this season he guided them to a 3-2 win against West Ham United.

Nicol said he considers it an honor to lead the team and that "it's always nice to win."

League of their own

The Revolution return to MLS action Aug. 9 against Chicago. It will be their first MLS game in more than a month. They faced the Los Angeles Galaxy July 4 and earned a 2-1 victory . . . The Revolution's injury list is dwindling. Phelan, Gary Flood (ankle sprain), and Doug Warren (ankle sprain) were all listed as questionable.