Emma Hayes defends decision to include 'tremendous human being' Korbin Albert in USWNT Olympic squad after homophobia storm

Albert courted controversy earlier this year when she shared anti-LGBTQ posts on social media, sparking criticism from USWNT icons Alex Morgan and Lindsey Horan as well as a strong statement from the players' association.

Albert apologized for the posts and was able to continue playing for the national team in the wake of the controversy, and new USWNT boss Hayes has allowed her to remain part of the team for the competition in Paris this summer, saying she deserves it "on merit in terms of what she offers" to the midfield.

Hayes went on to say that the 20-year has learned from her experience, telling reporters: "Korbin has had to learn. She’s a young person who’s understood fully the implications of her social media activity.

"The conversations we have had have been to talk about the importance of what we have to be mindful of, and how we are all part of an environment that’s one that appreciates and understands the damage that can do."

The ex-Chelsea manager added: "She has been a delight to coach. I think she’s had a really, really tough time. She’s really struggled. And I think some of that has shown in her performances. She’s a young person having to deal with a lot of criticism — rightfully so. She can hear the noise in the stadium and that’s affected her.

"I can say firsthand that having spent limited time with Korbin, she really is a lovely person and someone who really values the most important things, and that she’s spending time working on herself as we all do. I look forward to building on that with her, and I want everybody to know that my job is to make sure I keep doing that. I want the fans to really embrace Korbin because I think she’s a tremendous human being."

Hayes' side will take on Mexico and Costa Rica in friendlies in July before their Olympics campaign begins. The USWNT will kickstart the Games in Paris with a match against Zambia before facing Germany and Australia.