After Amandine Henry left the Thorns to return to Olympique Lyonnais, defensive midfield was one of the major question marks for the team. The Thorns had to replace one of the leading defensive midfielders in the world, and with Allie Long departing as well, nerves were strained among the Portland faithful as to who would play that role.
In the midst of all the speculation, Celeste Boureille was quietly having an excellent season in the base of midfield for the Brisbane Roar, hanging tough with top internationals and doing the dirty work for the team that let in the least goals over the course of the season.