USWNT star Julie Ertz opts out of NWSL Fall Series

The Chicago Red Stars released their NWSL Fall Series roster ahead of their matchup against the Washington Spirit on Saturday, but Julie Ertz isn't on it.

Ertz has decided to opt out of the four-game Fall Series, according to Sandra Herrera of CBS Sports. The longtime Red Stars captain has played as both a midfielder and defender for Chicago, but was listed as a defender during the Challenge Cup in Utah this summer. 

Chicago made it to the finals of the summer Challenge Cup, but lost 2-0 to the Houston Dash. 

While Ertz won't play, Chicago will see some other USWNT players compete this fall. Casey Short, Alyssa Naeher, Morgan Gautrat and Tierna Davidson all are on the Red Stars' roster. 

The Spirit already have played one game this season against Sky Blue FC, but lost 2-1 last week.