Chicago Fire striker Brian McBride is on the verge of a return from injury. The former Fulham star underwent surgery on his shoulder back in July and is now back in full training with the Fire and close to a return according to coach Denis Hamlett.

"He's in full go," Fire coach Denis Hamlett said Wednesday. "He's looking good. We are still being cautious, and working on his fitness and getting his soccer sharpness back.

"We want to make sure we put him in situations, with the shoulder and bicep, that he has some contact," Hamlett added.

"There is a chance (he would be available to play) this weekend (against Real Salt Lake)."

Hamlett said McBride's presence would change the dynamic of the whole playing group.

"It's huge having him back," Hamlett said. "Any time you get a player back from our original group, who we didn't expect until later this month, it is good."