D.C. United's Brandon McDonald and Kurt Morsink undergo hernia surgeries

D.C. United announced on Monday that defender Brandon McDonald and midfielder Kurt Morsink both underwent surgery for sports hernias on their right and left sides. Both players traveled to Munich, Germany for the procedure, performed by hernia specialist Dr. Ulrike Muschaweck.

McDonald and Morsink are the latest additions to a long list of United players who have made the trip in recent years. D.C. defender and Kensington, Md. product Ethan White did so earlier this fall to undergo the procedure on both his right and left sides. Sports hernias are one of the more common muscular injuries at the professional level, and are widely considered to be a byproduct of repetitive use.

Joining United mid-season from San Jose, Brandon McDonald immediately bolstered United’s defensive ranks and went on to start all 18 matches that he played in for the Black-and-Red, tallying one goal in 1,599 minutes of action. Prior to his arrival on June 27, the central defender played in 11 matches (8 starts) for the Earthquakes, scoring one goal and logging 695 minutes of action in San Jose.

Kurt Morsink was recently recognized by the D.C. United technical staff for his daily work ethic and contributions to the team in 2011, earning the 2011 Coaches’ Award. Since his arrival at United in March of 2010, Morsink has played 22 matches (20 starts), registering 1,715 of action.