He did not play many games because he took part in confederations cup, earning himself a longer vacation. He was available for 2 games this pre season and he took part in the first one then he got injured/"injured" for the 2nd game.
He sure is. Nobody gets past him without a fight!
https://twitter.com/RashadCFC/status/323482988383981568/photo/1
Post match interview about that situation: "I thought it was great defending *trollface*