Chad Marshall likely to start Crew's playoff opener

As their defense of the MLS Cup hits the postseason, Columbus Crew and head coach Robert Warzycha are still waiting on the injury status of Chad Marshall. The Crew's defender of the year has been missing in action since spraining his left knee in practice on September 15. While there was no reason to rush him back from the injury as Columbus secured their second consecutive Supporters' Shield, it looks like he will be ready to make his first start since the injury on Saturday night.

"He seems fine. It's a question of whether he is fit for 90 minutes," coach Warzycha told the Columbus Dispatch. "We'll talk tomorrow and see how he feels after the flight tonight. If he says he is ready to go he will go. We will listen to him."

If Marshall starts, there's plenty of reason to worry about his game fitness, and against a Real Salt Lake attack that boasts a speedy Robbie Findley and Yura Movsisyan, Columbus will need to be at their best at the back. The Crew eased their way into the playoffs, winning just one of their final four games, and will be out for revenge after losing to RSL 4-1 at Rio Tinto earlier this season.

Think Marshall will start Saturday? If he doesn't, who gets the call in his place?

Share your thoughts below.