With the Fusion losing its creative core just two weeks before the Western Conference playoffs, Mikkelsen may turn to Jamiel Hardware as Lopez's potential replacement in midfield.

The Jamaican midfielder, who has played for Boys Town FC and Jefferson College, has a goal and two assists in nine matches, although he's only started a handful of matches.

"Jamiel is a very talented individual," Mikkelsen said. "He's played alongside Roro and watched him as an understudy. You would hope that he would step into that role and be able to emulate some of the things he was doing for us."