RSL's Beltran Sidelined By Hernia

Real Salt Lake rookie defender Tony Beltran has undergone a successful operation for a sports hernia in Munich, Germany, the club announced today. He has missed RSL's last five league matches due to the injury, but will return to Salt Lake City tonight and should be ready to return in 2-3 weeks.

"We are pleased that Tony's surgery was successful, and we look forward to Tony fighting his way back into our back-line rotation and contributing down the stretch," said Real Salt Lake GM Garth Lagerwey.

Beltran, 20, was selected by the club with the 3rd overall pick in the 2008 MLS SuperDraft. The UCLA standout has made 14 appearances for the club in their surprising run toward the playoffs (10 starts), and has recorded one assist on the season.