Vlatko Andonovski praises Alyssa Thompson after Mallory Swanson's injury prompts USWNT shake-up
By Alex Windley
Alyssa Thompson was called up to the USWNT in place of forward Mallory Swanson, who suffered a torn patella tendon in her left knee in a friendly against Ireland on April 8.
Injuries are always difficult to process, especially when they happen to one of the best players on the team.
Such is the case with the USWNT and Mallory Swanson, who suffered a nasty knee injury in the 41st minute of their recent 2-0 vs. Ireland.
In Swanson’s place steps in 18-year-old Angel City FC prodigy Thompson.
Speaking with the media about the roster shake-up, head coach Vlatko Andonovski talked about the injury to Swanson and how Thompson is more than ready to impact the National team.
"We will see Alyssa on the field," said Andonovski. "It’s only a question how much."
Before this recent call up, Thompson has only made two appearances for the USWNT.
With only a couple of months til the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, Thompson will be about to potentially cement her spot on the roster when June comes around.
When asked about Thompson’s skillset, Andonovski had nothing but glowing reviews for 18-year-old.
"Alyssa Thompson has the ability to play against teams like Ireland who are in the low block and plays with ability to break down complex defenses. That’s why she’s in the environment. That’s why we wanted her," he added.
Andonovski then went on to analyze her playing style even further, breaking down how she could contribute to the USWNT.
"She is an exciting player. She has abilities to turn in small areas, which not many players have. And not just to turn, but she accelerates with a ball and runs at defenses with confidence," he said.
"I almost want to say, sometimes for an 18-year-old, it’s borderline arrogant when she goes at you. She can eliminate players on the dribble and we’ve seen this for some good goals, as well. So excited to have her in the environment and looking forward to seeing her on the field.”