It will be a busy summer for the Aston Villa Women players. Noelle Maritz is the latest to receive the official call-up. Although expected, the Villa defender will be part of Switzerland's pair of Nations League fixtures. First, on May 30th, the Swiss will take on France. Then, on June 3rd, La Nati will host Norway.
While AVWFC supporters would have loved to see the season continue, considering the side's form, the summer break does offer the chance to see many of the players featured on the international stage.
The immediate focus will be on the Nations League. Although Switzerland currently sits in fourth in Group A2, they will look to make up some ground in the upcoming matches.
More importantly, these games in particular will serve as a good warm-up and preparation for the host nation of the upcoming Euros. Knowing what it means to play the tournament in front of their fans.
Maritz, as she has been for Villa, offers a veteran, stabilizing presence on the backline for her country. At over 100 caps for the senior international team, she is someone Pia Sundhage can rely on and turn to with a high level of trust.
In general, this is a team that is looking to give chances and looks for other players, moving on from some of the older guard. Maritz, however, is something of a mainstay. She will be eager to be a leader and an instrumental part in helping Switzerland have a good showing on home soil this summer.
Interim matches for Aston Villa Women supporters
With Villa, she has found herself comfortable in the three-center-back system deployed by Natalie Arroyo. Able to provide good cover in front of the goal and then be part of the build-up going the other way, Villan supporters know what she can bring to any side that she plays for.
Until everyone returns, AVWFC supporters will have to take the consolation of watching their favorite players playing for their country teams. Even so, there can often be incredible moments and excellent games that result from the months without WSL action.