August 2, 2012
SHE'S READY
Recovered Boxx can play, but for how long?

By Michael Lewis
BigAppleSoccer.com Editor

Shannon Boxx: Available to play Friday Linda Cuttone/Sports Vue Images

NEWCASTLE, England -- Shannon Boxx is available to play for the United States against New Zealand in Friday's Olympic women's quarterfinal, although it isn't know how much long she can perform

Boxx, who hasn't played since injuring a hamstring muscle in the 4-2 opening win over trained with the U.S. team for the first time since then at Newcastle University on Thursday.

U.S. coach Pia Sundhage said that it hasn't been determined how long the 35-year-old veteran can play at St. James' Park.

"We'll wait until [Friday] because every single hour matters for her and it's all about timing," Sundhage said. "So it depends on tomorrow, pretty much."

If called on, Boxx said she will be ready. She said that she felt "great."

"It's so very hard to be out for an injury," she said. "Every single one of us wants to be in there playing, helping this team. I'm trying to get back. I feel really good. I went through training today, so I am available, if need be. . . . I'm just doing everything off the field still be a presence and a leader."