Alex Morgan said she plans to play for the Portland Thorns in 2015.

There has been some speculation that Morgan, the team's star striker, might not return to the Thorns after a frustrating season in 2014. Morgan said she enjoys playing in Portland.

"Portland is the best organization to play for. I really feel like it's home in Portland with the fans, with my teammates," Morgan said. "As of right now, I'm definitely coming back to Portland. Obviously things can happen from now to the beginning of the season, but I am fully committed to Portland right now."

The nagging ankle injury that limited Morgan to six goals in 14 games was the source of much of her frustration. Even when she returned to the field in June, she wasn't fully fit and has only recently returned to full fitness while playing for the United States women's national team.

Morgan and the entire team also had to learn a new system and style under first-year coach Paul Riley. That process was a continual work in progress throughout the season.

"It was an interesting season for me," Morgan said. "I hope to have a better season next year, hopefully that will be in Portland."

The Thorns' inconsistent performances during the season produced plenty of angst in 2014. The Thorns, NWSL champions in 2013, earned a playoff berth by defeating Seattle in the final game of the regular season. They were bounced out of the playoffs by Kansas City in the semifinal round.

Morgan and the Thorns didn't always play as if they were on the same page as Riley's plan during the regular season. Morgan is hoping for a better season in 2015.

"I hope that we continue to evolve as a team and work with the coaching staff to put the best product out on the field and make us the best team in the league," Morgan said.

Morgan added that while she likes playing for the Thorns, right now she's completely committed to the U.S. national team and its quest to qualify for the World Cup.

-- Geoffrey C. Arnold | @geoffreyCarnold