#thiney

I was thinking about if there was a new expansion team who would I initially want for my six international players? I immediately nixed the idea of any of the current international players in the WPS to focus on those outside of the country.

And you'll notice a lack of defenders. This has more to do with being hamstrung by the limit of international players than not having quality defenders. The talent in the front is just too good to pass up with the amazing array of talent throughout the WPS. You have to be able to match it (and I could probably nab a quality defender or two in the expansion draft and/or trying to sign American Ali Krieger).

So, off the top of my head here is where I would go:

Forwards: Emilie Haavi & Gartane Thiney

I was impressed with both throughout the tournament, especially Thiney. However, Haavi would be my number one priority. She's only 19, performed well and will only continue to get better. And from a business perspective she is more marketable than some of the other current WPS international players (especially if her English is up to par). Having a cornerstone that could seemingly be built around is vital to an expansion team.

Midfielders: Sonia Bompastor, Louisa Necib, Aya Miyama and Genoveva Anonma

I was going to put Sawa on this list but her age was the deciding factor. But why select Bompastor then? She's a few years younger and has WPS experience as well. To add to that she would also be able to better communicate with my other French selections on the pitch. Necib and Miyama also stand out post-World Cup (Miyama boasts WPS experience as well). Anonma would be someone I'd take a flyer on. She showed quite well in the group stage against the likes of Brazil but missed a couple opportunities to finish. However, she is listed as a midfielder and putting her behind Haavi and Thiney could prove deadly with Bompastor out wide.