As part of today’s announcement of Canadian allocated players by the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), Canada Women’s National Team forward Christine Sinclair returns to Portland for her fourth season with the club, while defender Rhian Wilkinson is no longer an allocated player and will not be back for the 2016 season, it was announced today.
The placement of the Canada’s allocated individuals was accomplished using the league’s prior placement processes, as that process began prior to the adoption of the new rule. The new Player Allocation Process, which was announced on Jan. 15, 2016, will be in effect moving forward to distribute the rights to any new individuals to clubs in the league.
Sinclair, 32, appeared in nine games (8 starts), tallying two goals and two assists for Thorns FC during the 2015 season. In three seasons with Portland, Sinclair has made 52 appearances (50 starts), recording 17 goals and five assists. The Canada Women’s National Team captain is currently tied for second on the women’s international all-time scoring list with 158 goals, one shy of surpassing Mia Hamm for sole possession of second place on the list, and has earned 232 caps during her international career.
Canada opens the 2016 CONCACAF Olympic Qualifying Championship on Thursday, Feb. 11, against Guyana at BBVA Compass Stadium in Houston; kickoff is set for 5:30 p.m. (Pacific).
