Where should Julie Ertz play? It used to be a simple question with a simple answer, but injuries have pushed her into defense and created issues elsewhere. It's vital the USWNT figure this out, and fast.
I think the last match made it obvious - Julie Ertz needs to play in the midfield. We were getting overrun, and had no ability to connect through the middle either. Ceding the middle of the pitch from box to box just isn’t going to work - no matter who plays CB. I have faith in Alana Cook - run her out, put Ertz in the midfield. Having Rose Lavelle back for longer stretches will also help control the game. But the current lineup basically says “let’s strengthen the back line but invite lots of pressure”, which is a recipe for allowing goals and limits the effectiveness of the attack.
I think the last match made it obvious - Julie Ertz needs to play in the midfield. We were getting overrun, and had no ability to connect through the middle either. Ceding the middle of the pitch from box to box just isn’t going to work - no matter who plays CB. I have faith in Alana Cook - run her out, put Ertz in the midfield. Having Rose Lavelle back for longer stretches will also help control the game. But the current lineup basically says “let’s strengthen the back line but invite lots of pressure”, which is a recipe for allowing goals and limits the effectiveness of the attack.