NJ/NY Gotham FC signed midfielder Mana Shim to a short-term injury replacement contract and she is immediately available for selection beginning Sunday for the club’s game against the Chicago Red Stars, Gotham announced. Here’s what you need to know:
The Athletic’s instant analysis:
Why sign Shim now?
Shim is likely adding some bench depth as Gotham’s Taylor Smith recently joined the 45-day disabled list with a thigh injury. As a bit of a coincidence, this also may help provide a little depth as the team loses Lynn Williams and Kristie Mewis starting June 26, with both players reporting to the U.S. women’s national team’s camp ahead of the World Cup.
In the past, Shim has played mostly as a midfielder but may be asked for some positional versatility given Gotham’s personnel needs. — Yang
What they’re saying
“I am excited to return to the NWSL as part of Gotham FC,” Shim said in a statement. “It’s a demanding and professional environment that’s focused on players first, and they have put together an incredibly talented group that I’m honored to share the field with.”
JT Batson, U.S. Soccer’s CEO and secretary general, shared his excitement for Shim on Twitter.
All of @meleanashim’s colleagues at @ussoccer are beyond pumped for Mana’s return to…
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