da 888casino： Alex Morgan and Becky Sauerbrunn head a list of notable absentees from the United States women's roster to play in the upcoming Gold Cup.

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USWNT to play in Gold Cup in FebruaryMorgan, Sauerbrunn and Mewis among absenteesSign of generational change under HayesGetty ImagesWHAT HAPPENED?

That squad is the first tournament selection from incoming boss Emma Hayes, made alongside interim coach Twila Kilgore, and marks a moment of generational change in the USWNT ranks. Morgan sits fifth in her nation's all-time scoring list with 121 goals in 215 appearance. But she co-captained the side that failed so spectacularly at the World Cup last summer and has scored just twice in 18 international matches. The 34-year-old striker clearly figures in no part of Hayes' future.

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Morgan is not the only famous name to be omitted. Sauerbrunn missed the 2023 World Cup through a foot injury but is a previous USWNT captain, so her absence is notable. Andi Sullivan also doesn't feature, despite being the team's go-to defensive midfielder in recent years. Other significant absentees include Ashley Sanchez, Kelley O’Hara and Sofia Huerta, to go alongside the recent retirements of legends Megan Rapinoe, Julie Ertz and Sam Mewis.

Getty ImagesWHAT KILGORE SAID

Interim boss Kilgore defended such widespread changes in a statement, explaining: "Not only is there a trophy on the line, but this is a great opportunity to capitalize on meaningful match opportunities and experience the short turnarounds between games, which is a rhythm that closely mirrors the Olympic format. We are going to take our next steps together as we continue to evolve our style of play and provide opportunities for players to grow into possible future roles and partnerships.”

DID YOU KNOW?

Some stars from the failed World Cup run do retain their place, though, with defenders Naomi Girma and Emily Fox, midfielders Lindsey Horan and Rose Lavelle, and forwards Sophia Smith and Trinity Rodman all included. Recent debutants Jaedyn Shaw, Olivia Moultrie, Korbin Albert, Mia Fishel and Jenna Nighswonger also make the cut in what is a young-looking roster.