Korbin Albert LEFT OUT of USWNT starting XI for SheBelieves Cup opener vs. Japan following backlash from teammates over anti-LGBTQ social media posts

Korbin Albert has been left out of the USWNT's starting XI for Saturday's SheBelieves Cup opener against Japan.

It comes after the young midfielder came under fire from some of her own teammates over her social media posts. 

Manager Twila Kilgore insisted on Friday that Albert was available for selection but she was only named among the substitutes on Saturday.

On Wednesday, USWNT veterans Alex Morgan and Lindsey Horan appeared in the team's pre-game press conference to address the situation with Albert.

'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.'

The outrage came after Albert's social media activity revealed that she reposted a video of a Christian worship space preaching against homosexuality and transsexuality.

The Paris Saint Germain midfielder and USWNT rising star previously posted similar content on social media. In another TikTok post - that has since been deleted - Albert showed her family saying 'their pronouns are USA,' during the Fourth of July weekend.

Without naming Albert, retired USWNT star Megan Rapinoe took to Instagram and wrote: 'To the people who want to hide behind "my beliefs" I would just ask one question, are you making any time of space safer, more inclusive, more whole, any semblance of better, bringing the best out of anyone? … because if you aren't all you believe in is hate. And Kids are literally killing themselves because of this hate. Wake TF up! Yours Truly, #15.'

Corbin started in five games for the USWNT in their run to the CONCACAF Women's Championship title earlier this year. Outside the national team, Albert has started in nine of her 16 appearances and scored one goal for PSG this season.

In a public apology on March 28 via Instagram, Albert 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.'