Rapinoe shaping US next generation at fourth World Cup

NEW YORK : Megan Rapinoe is embracing a changed role for what may well be her last appearance at the Women's World Cup, as her off-the-pitch leadership shapes the next generation of United States players.

The ebullient Californian helped the U.S. hoist the trophy in 2015 and four years later became a household name as they retained their title, with Rapinoe finishing as the tournament's top scorer and famously sparring with former U.S. President Donald Trump.

En route to her fourth World Cup, Rapinoe is the oldest player in the U.S. squad, as she turned 38 on Wednesday, and has no issues with her likely switch from starter to squad player.

"I'm all for longevity, but we don't need to drag it," she told Time, as she was named one of the magazine's women of the year in March.

As the U.S., who are chasing an unprecedented third consecutive title, prepare to field a youthful side at the World Cup coach Vlatko Andonovski expects Rapinoe to "have a role of a player, leader - and leading the leaders as well."

"When she's on the field, she's a great player. So that's the first reason why she's on this team," he told reporters at a team media event ahead of the World Cup, which kicks off July 20 in Australia and New Zealand.

"She's just one of the most creative players that I've ever seen and a true winner. I mean, she's certainly a great player and that's why we want her on the team. But also her experience and leadership is what this team needs as well."

Rapinoe's spot in the squad means some of the U.S. World Cup debutants will have a chance to compete alongside a player they watched growing up.

Uncapped midfielder Savannah DeMelo, 25, said her "first real memory" of the Women's World Cup was watching Rapinoe send a laser-like cross