Western New York Flash striker Alex Morgan was named to the 2011 U.S. Women’s World Cup roster, taking place this summer in Germany from June 26th through July 17th. Morgan has 7 goals in 16 international appearances including the lone goal in a 1-0 victory over Italy this past November.
 
Morgan joined the Flash after being picked first overall in the 2011 Women’s Professional Soccer draft. Morgan has two goals and two assists in four games with the Flash this season, including one each in last Friday night’s 3-1 victory over Sky Blue FC. Prior to suiting up for the Flash, the Diamond Bar, California native played four years for the University of California, Berkeley where she led her team in scoring in both her freshman and senior seasons. She is currently third all-time in points (107) and tied for third in goals (45) in school history.
 
“Already she is the most successful first overall draft pick in WPS history,” says head coach Aaran Lines. “Alex has amazing qualities and big talents, and deserves to be on that roster. It’s exciting for a player at her age to be traveling to her first World Cup.” At 21 years old, Morgan is the youngest player on this year’s U.S. Women’s World Cup squad.
 
Well known for her quick pace and goal-scoring abilities, Morgan’s absence from the WNY Flash will be unmistakable. However, coach Lines is confident that the team will be able to fill her starting role with other members from the talented squad. “I kind of expected Alex to make that roster, so when we went out and signed players, we did with the expectation that she will miss significant time with the National Team. Obviously she has unique qualities that have helped us so far, but I truly believe that all of our players are talented enough to have made that roster and deserve to play in the World Cup. ”  (From WNY Flash press release.)

Morgan is a more current, forward-version of Brandi Chastain, wouldn’t you say?