Minnesota United tightens focus on defense as playoff push intensifies

With the regular season entering its final stretch, Minnesota United coach Cameron Knowles has a clear priority for his squad: shore up a defense that has leaked too many goals in recent weeks while preparing for a demanding run of matches.

Speaking Tuesday after training, Knowles said the Loons have spent the past week emphasizing improvement on both sides of the ball, but defense has been at the forefront.

“We’ve conceded too many goals in recent games,” Knowles said. “The guys have put in a really good shift over last week and into this week.”

***Click the video box above to watch Knowles and new defender Cherrion Valerius speak after training Tuesday***

Minnesota expects to have its international players back in training over the next few days, which should leave the club close to full strength heading into Saturday’s home match vs. Houston. Th...