Korbin Albert IS available for USWNT at SheBelieves Cup, coach Twila Kilgore confirms... despite backlash from teammates over anti-LGBTQ social media posts

Korbin Albert is still available for selection for the upcoming SheBelieves Cup - despite facing a backlash from her USWNT teammates over an anti-LGBTQ social media post, interim manager Twila Kilgore confirmed.

Alex Morgan and Lindsey Horan accused Albert of not upholding the USWNT's integrity by reposting a now-deleted video of a Christian worship space preaching against homosexuality and 'feeling transgender.'

Megan Rapinoe also took aim at the 20-year-old midfielder, with several senior players including Becky Sauerbrunn, Lynn Williams, and Kristie Mewis, sharing her social media post condemning 'this hate'.

Speaking on Friday, ahead of the USWNT's tournament opener against Japan, Kilgore addressed the controversy surrounding Albert. 

The coach revealed that there had been 'several internal conversations... that will remain internal' but she insisted that the rising star is available to face Japan.

'It is disappointing when somebody falls short of the very high standards that we set within this team,' Kilgore said. 

'This team has always been a beacon of respect, inclusion and demonstrated great allyship through actions for underrepresented and marginalized groups, including the LGBTQ+ community. And we will continue to do so.'

'As (Horan) and (Morgan) mentioned, this team has never shied away from hard conversations, and today we're here continuing to work on getting better, continuing to work on preparing ourselves to make ourselves proud, make our fans proud and put ourselves in the best position to continue to look towards success as we start this tournament.'

In another TikTok post - since deleted - Albert showed her family saying 'their pronouns are USA,' during the Fourth of July weekend. She 

Additionally, Albert appeared to like an Instagram post of a meme that read: 'God taking time off performing miracles to make sure Megan Rapinoe sprains her ankle in her final ever game.'

Earlier this week, Horan and Morgan revealed that the team had discussed the controversy.

'We're extremely extremely sad that the standard was not upheld,' Horan said. 'Our fans and our supporters feel like this is a team that they can rally behind. It's so important that they continue to feel undeniably heard and seen.'

'We stand by maintaining a safe and respectful place, especially as allies and members of the LGBTQ+ community,' Morgan added. 'This platform has given us an opportunity to highlight causes that matter to us- something that we never take for granted.'

'It is also important to note that we've had internal discussions around the situation,' Morgan continued. 'And that will stay within the team. But one thing to note is that we never shied away from hard conversations.'

On March 28, Albert publicly apologized and promised 'to do better' following the backlash.

'I'm really disappointed in myself and am deeply sorry for the hurt that I have caused to my teammates, other players, fans, friends and anyone who was offended,' she wrote.

'I truly believe that everyone should feel safe and respected everywhere and on all playing fields. I know my actions have not lived up to that and for that I sincerely apologize.

'It's an honor and a privilege to get to play this sport and on the world stage and I promise to do better.'