World Cup champion Rose Lavelle is nearing her comeback after recovering from an ankle injury. Her return is expected to provide a significant boost to both her NWSL team, NJ/NY Gotham FC, and the U.S. Women`s National Team.
Lavelle has been sidelined since December, following the USWNT`s 2-1 victory in the Netherlands, shortly after which she underwent ankle surgery. She has spent six months rehabilitating and is potentially set to make her season debut this Saturday when Gotham FC faces the Kansas City Current. According to Head Coach Juan Carlos Amoros, speaking on Thursday, if her final preparations are successful, Lavelle might feature in the match in some capacity.
Her potential return comes during a crucial match against the Current, who lead the NWSL standings with eight wins in ten games. Gotham FC, currently in ninth place, could greatly benefit from her presence, especially after recently winning the first Concacaf W Champions Cup by defeating Tigres 1-0 in the final.
Significance of Lavelle`s Return for Gotham FC
Gotham is currently just two points outside of a playoff position, a gap that is easily bridgeable with 16 matches remaining. Lavelle`s comeback is therefore timely, particularly given the team`s somewhat inconsistent attacking performance this season.
The reigning NWSL champions are eighth in the league for goals scored, netting only 12 in 10 matches, with seven contributed by Spanish forward Esther Gonzalez. Advanced statistics show a similar trend: Gotham ranks eighth for total shots (120), eighth for expected goals (11.9), and sixth for shots on target (45). Defensively, they have conceded 10 goals, showing a balance similar to previous seasons under Coach Amoros.
Last season, Gotham also had a slow start but recovered to finish third and reach the playoff semifinals, establishing themselves among the league`s elite. Like this year, the team was defensively strong but initially struggled offensively. Their attack improved significantly upon Lavelle`s return from a lower leg injury in April. She went on to score eight goals and provide one assist in 23 appearances, making her one of Gotham`s top scorers (alongside Gonzalez) in the NWSL. A comparable offensive contribution from Lavelle this season would be perfectly timed.
Lavelle`s Value and Experience for the USWNT
While USWNT Head Coach Emma Hayes is strategically integrating newer talent in preparation for the 2027 Women`s World Cup, experienced veterans remain crucial during this transitional phase. Defender Crystal Dunn has noted the importance of veterans in demonstrating `how hard it is to be here,` a role Rose Lavelle is perfectly suited for with her extensive experience. Lavelle has participated in two World Cups and two Olympic Games, winning one title in each major tournament.
Beyond her experience, Lavelle`s on-field skills are invaluable. For years, she has been a key midfielder for the USWNT, often creating opportunities for the forward line in a team known for its attacking prowess. Her exact return date to the national squad is uncertain, particularly as Coach Hayes is cautious about rushing players back from injury. However, her presence will add vital offensive creativity during this period of squad evolution.
Coach Hayes stated earlier that she aims to have a comprehensive understanding of her player options by the conclusion of the next international window in early July, though she retains flexibility for adjustments. In attacking midfield over the past six months, she has rotated between Lindsey Horan and Lily Yohannes. Lavelle`s availability provides another strong option as Hayes works towards finalizing the optimal squad and tactics for 2027.
