Julie Ertz, Sophia Smith Named to USWNT Roster for Ireland Friendlies

Veterans Alex Morgan and Julie Ertz headlined the United States women's national team roster announced Tuesday:

The squad will face Ireland in a pair of friendlies on April 8 and 11.

This represents the final tune-ups for the United States before the start of the World Cup in July.

Ertz being on the roster is notable, as it will be her first appearance with USWNT since the 2020 Olympics. She gave birth to her first child in August 2022, as noted by Jeff Carlisle of ESPN.

The midfielder has made 116 appearances for the USWNT during her career while winning two World Cups, so her return could be a major boost for the team heading into this year's World Cup.

Morgan, with 121 international goals, also provides plenty of experience for the roster with Megan Rapinoe out with a leg injury.

The team will also feature a lot of young talent as a new generation tries to make its mark.

Sophia Smith won the NWSL MVP last year, scoring 14 goals in 18 matches, while Mallory Swanson has been nearly unstoppable with Team USA, scoring seven goals already in 2023. Trinity Rodman also continues her ascension, already with 15 caps as a 20-year-old.

These players will do their best to prove they deserve a roster spot for the World Cup.