US Women’s National Team defender Naomi Girma will join the team next week for her first time since January, when she was transferred to Chelsea in a world-record deal. Girma, who has been with Chelsea this season, helping them win the Women’s Super League title and FA Cup, is healthy again and ready to return to the USWNT.
USWNT head coach Emma Hayes said Girma is crucial to the team’s success, citing her leadership qualities and defensive skills. “You can’t underestimate the importance of players like Naomi,” Hayes stated. “She brings quality and leadership to our team.”
Meanwhile, Hayes has been experimenting with different positions, calling up Orlando Pride fullback Kerry Abello and Kansas City Current midfielder Lo’eau LaBonta for their first senior appearances. LaBonta, 32, is on track to become the oldest player to debut for the USWNT in its history.
Other notable additions to the team include goalkeeper Claudia Dickey and forward Lynn Biyendolo, who are returning from injuries. The USWNT will face China on May 31 at Allianz Field in St. Paul, Minnesota, followed by Jamaica on June 3 at Energizer Park in St. Louis.
The team’s roster includes 17 domestic players from the NWSL and seven players joining from Europe as the season concludes. Hayes’ focus this year is on developing squad depth, with camps like this one serving as opportunities to test new players and strategies.
Source: https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/45235830/chelsea-naomi-girma-back-united-states-squad-china-jamaica