Assessing the USWNT’s depth chart as World Cup roster decisions are made

The U.S. national team is seven matches into its 10 game schedule before departing for France, but the time for players to make their case for roster inclusion is done. Goalkeepers Starter: Alyssa Naeher In contention: Ashlyn Harris, Adrianna Franch, Jane Campbell The three goalkeepers going to France are also not about to surprise anyone if they’ve followed this team at all. Defense Starters: Crystal Dunn, Becky Sauerbrunn, Abby Dahlkemper, Kelley O’Hara In contention: Tierna Davidson, Casey Short, Emily Sonnett, Ali Krieger The biggest question mark for the USWNT is the defense. Kelley O’Hara will almost certainly make the roster, but might need a prayer circle to stave off any further injuries; she missed the last two friendlies thanks to an “ankle issue” after undergoing ankle surgery in October 2018 and coming back from a hamstring injury earlier in the year. Midfield Starters: Julie Ertz, Lindsey Horan, Rose Lavelle In contention: Samantha Mewis, McCall Zerboni, Allie Long, Danielle Colaprico Ellis was forced to tinker with the midfield in recent games thanks to Lindsey Horan’s quad injury, but the reigning NWSL MVP is a key part of the USWNT midfield trio, along with Julie Ertz and Rose Lavelle.