Rose Lavelle, a champion of the Women’s World Cup, is on the brink of making her comeback from ankle surgery, an event that promises to rejuvenate both her NWSL team, NJ/NY Gotham FC, and the U.S. women’s national squad. She has not played since December during a match against the Netherlands and has spent six months rehabilitating.

Lavelle’s anticipated return might take place as Gotham faces the Kansas City Current, who lead the NWSL standings. Head Coach Juan Carlos Amoros stated that if preparations go smoothly, Lavelle could participate in the game.

Lavelle’s Impact on Gotham

Gotham is currently just outside the playoff zone, trailing by only two points. Lavelle’s presence on the field could alter the team’s fortunes, especially given their current struggles in attack where they rank eighth in the league.

During Lavelle’s previous season with Gotham, she made significant contributions, netting eight goals in 23 matches, indicating her potential influence this time around.

Strategic Role with USWNT

With the USWNT preparing for the upcoming World Cup, Coach Emma Hayes seeks to blend experience with youthful exuberance. Lavelle’s wealth of experience, including multiple World Cup appearances, is invaluable as they aim to balance building a new team while maintaining high performance.

Hayes is expected to assess her roster thoroughly before the next international window, which falls in early July, making Lavelle’s contribution even more timely and necessary.