Sofia Huerta isn’t in Australia to soak up the sun or even for a ‘working holiday’, the American is here for one mission only: to win back her position on the US National Team.

It’s been an interesting journey on the international stage for Huerta so far: originally rejected by the USA, she joined and played for the Mexican senior team before doing an about-turn and returning to the Stars and Stripes in 2017 thanks to a FIFA ruling.

Huerta is using the W-League to brush up her skills at left back in preparation for the opportunity. Playing in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) back home, the five month off-season is giving her the opportunity to add a new position to her toolkit.

The American is formerly a front third player with eight goals and six assists in her 2018 season at NWSL club Houston Dash. But as Huerta hasn’t been getting called-up recently for the national team, she is looking to gain some confidence and experience at fullback.

“I wanted to get more reps at outside back, which is where I’m playing for Sydney and which is where the national team originally had me playing,” explained Huerta.

“I’ve definitely always been an attacking player and I feel like I’m more comfortable there but at this point one of my qualities is being versatile. If I can continue playing outside back I think that I can be a really good option for the national team in this upcoming World Cup.”

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Sydney FC making the finals in all 11 seasons of the W-League was a massive draw card for Huerta, who wanted to be playing for one of the top teams when she decided to move back into the W-League.

“Sydney is just a little bit further along with their facilities and the development of their players.”

Although the 25 year old admits it’s difficult being away from her family and her home, she says she’s settling in well at her new club.

“The team’s really nice: it’s only been a week and I feel like I’ve been here for a month.”

Helping her to settle in are fellow Americans Danielle Colaprico, Aubrey Bledsoe and Savannah McCaskill.

Huerta played in the 2016/17 season of the W-League for Adelaide United, being awarded the PFA W-League Player of the Month in January 2017 and being voted third in the Julie Dolan Medal. Playing alongside her at Adelaide was Danielle Colaprico, who has now followed Huerta to Sydney FC.

“It’s nice to have them here so we can go through the journey together and have a little piece of home while we’re here.”

“Dani and I have played together for four years now. She’s my best friend and it’s nice to be with her again.”

Having signed for a top club, surrounded herself with friends and getting experience in a second position: the stage is set for Huerta to win back her national team place.

Feature image credit: Efcso Media