Christen Press: The Bench Warmer Dilemma

Christen Press, a key player for Angel City, has barely seen any game time this season. Since her return from a serious ACL injury and signing a one-year contract extension, fans expected to see more of her. However, she has only played a handful of minutes in a few games. This has left many supporters puzzled and frustrated. Press has been on the bench for most of the games. She missed the first two matches against the San Diego Wave and Portland Thorns. Her debut came in the third game, a 2-1 win over Seattle Reign, where she played just five minutes. In the following two games, she was subbed in during the final 15 minutes. Fans were disappointed when she didn't play in the recent loss against Orlando Pride, where Angel City squandered a 2-0 lead. Denise White, Press's manager, has joined the fans in questioning the team's management. Before the Orlando game, White saw an Instagram post from Angel City showing their starting lineup. Seeing Press on the bench, White commented, "Christen Press needs to be starting. How do you have a two-time World Cup Champion and Olympian and not start her? " White also clarified that Press is fully fit and ready to play. She compared Press to a Ferrari in the garage, saying, "You have a Ferrari in the garage but not willing to take it out. Doesn't make sense. Come on Angel City do better Coach. " White's comment sparked a debate among fans. Many agreed with her, expressing their frustration with Press's lack of playing time. One fan asked White if there were any players she wouldn't want to see start ahead of Press. White responded, "For Christen? Where do I start? Any of them that make sense, and there are quite a few. " This comment sent a clear message to the coaching staff that fans are not happy with how Press is being treated. The interim manager, Sam Laity, is set to leave on June 1st, with a new head coach taking over. However, fans hope that Laity will address this issue before his departure. If not, things could get worse for Press. It's crucial for the team to give Press the playing time she deserves, especially considering her experience and skills. After all, she is a two-time World Cup Champion and Olympian, and her presence on the field could make a significant difference for the team.