USWNT: 16-year-old called in to replace Tobin Heath for Russian friendlies

Midfielder Tobin Heath has been ruled out for the United States Women’s National Team’s friendly matches against Russia, and a young star will be her replacement.

A trio of injuries in the USWNT midfielder have sidelined Heath, as well as her Portland Thorns teammates Lindsey Horan and Morgan Brian. None of the three will be available for this month’s two friendly matches against Russia.

Manager Jill Ellis decided to go with youth in her replacement choices in 16-year-old Sophia Smith and 17-year-old Jaelin Howell.

Smith has most recently been training with the Under-23 team in Portland, as the squad was participating in a preseason tournament the Thorns were hosting. She has experience playing for various teams in the USWNT program, including scoring four goals in three matches in a tournament in Spain for the Under-20 team. Earlier this year, she scored five goals in three appearances for the Under-18 team while the team was in England.

Her biggest moment may have come against the Thorns on March 29 when she scored the match-winning goal for the U-23’s in their 2-1 win.

Howell plays with Smith at Real Colorado, which is the two players parent club team. The midfielder has seen playing time for the U-23’s during the Thorns preseason tournament as well. She was named to the CONCACAF U-17 tournament best XI in 2016.

Although it is unlikely these two players will be selected for the team sheets, there still might be a chance Ellis gives them a shot at a brief appearance. Smith’s goal against the Thorns shows she holds immense goal scoring talent and can produce goals against senior level teams.

Next: USWNT: Lloyd and Morgan to meet in UEFA Champions League Semis

The USWNT’s training camp is underway and their first match against Russia will take place on April 6, with the second match being played on April 8. Russia is currently ranked 25th in the world.