The FAWSL returned to action last weekend after it's mid season break. The break represented a chance for clubs in both leagues 1 & 2 to bring in new faces, to strengthen or add some more depth to their squads ahead of what is going to be a very busy playing schedule in the latter part of the season. The summer transfer window opened on the 6th of June and closed on the 3rd of July.
It hasn't been the frantic hive of business that we saw over the winter months but most of the clubs have done business in one form or another. Here is a summary of the comings and goings in the FAWSL.
WSL 1
It was Notts County Ladies who made the 1st move announcing the signing of Australian defender Danielle Brogan to add to the defensive line up having lost Anna Green through long term injury in early season. The Nottingham club have also brought in a striker to increase competition up front, Irish international Fiona O Sullivan who comes over from FC Freiburg in Germany where she has a good scoring record. There has also been a player departure with Courtney Sweetman-Kirk moving on.
Last seasons WSL title winners Liverpool Ladies had been beset by injury to players in the early part of the season and have brought in Danish defender Nina Pedersen to bolster the back line. Have also sent young defender Megan Alexander out on loan. Have recently announced that Swedish player Louise Fors who has been out on loan back in Sweden with Alta IF is to take a break from football for family reasons.
Chelsea Ladies have also looked overseas to bolster their squad by bringing in Portugese winger Ana Borges from Athletico Madrid, an experienced international with 56 caps.
Fellow London club Arsenal Ladies most important signing during the summer break was going to be a head coach to replaced double FA Cup winner Shelley Kerr. For now they have placed John Bayer the technical director for their Centre of Excellence in temporary charge. No new signings but have a boost with injured England midfielder, Jordan Nobbs returning to training. One notable player departure on the penultimate day of the window however, Dutch international Anouk Hoogendijk leaving to return to Ajax. Hardly got any game time in the 1st part of the WSL season.
Bristol Academy were more notable in the players departing the club after the 1st part of the season with 4 players leaving the club, Rhian Cleverly, Ellie Leek, Ellie Curson & Anne-Marie Heatherson all of whom featured very little under new manager Dave Edmondson. The club did make a signing late on however bringing in goalkeeping cover for Marys Earps in the form of Alice Evans from Yeovil Town Ladies.
Birmingham City Ladies haven't brought anyone in but have released goalkeeper Jessica Myers and let striker Katie Wilkinson go out on loan.
Manchester City Women left it till the final day of the transfer window to make a signing bringing in experienced German player Kathleen Radtke for the 2nd part of this seasons WSL campaign.
That leaves Everton Ladies as the only WSL 1 club not to add or see any departures from their squad.
WSL 2
In WSL 2 their has been a bit more transfer activity between the 10 clubs. On the day Courtney Sweetman-Kirk announced she was leaving Notts County Ladies it wasn't long before we learnt she was to take on a new challenge with the then WSL 2 leaders Doncaster Rovers Belles.
Aston Villa Ladies was the destination for Katie Wilkinson going on loan till the end of the season from Birmingham City Ladies. Joining her from Birmingham is goalkeeper Jessica Myers.
From the chasing pack Reading FC Women have been the busiest bringing in four new faces to bolster their squad, Laura-May Walkley from Cardiff Met Ladies and Megan Ryan from Arsenal reserves. Most surprising though was Bonnie Horwood from Watford Ladies. Reading manager Jayne Ludlow has also snapped up promising young Arsenal Ladies player Bianca Bragg on the final day of the transfer window.
Yeovil Town Ladies strengthened their forward line by snapping up striker Ellie Curson after her release by Bristol Academy. Have also added Nicola Cousins from Cardiff City Ladies to their squad. Their only departure goalkeeper Alice Evans.
London Bees left it late in the window to bring in new faces but have added midfielders Rebecca Anderson from Coventry Ladies, and Paula Howells from Brighton to their squad. A very notable departure in the closing days of the window as coach Tom Donati steps down from his position. Despite this the club have added Amy Cooper from Tottenham to their books on the final day of the transfer window.
Watford Ladies have lost Bonnie Horwood to rivals Reading whilst Sunderland Ladies and Millwall Lionesses haven't seen anyone coming in or depart.
That leaves the bottom two clubs Durham Women and Oxford United Women. Both have added to their squads. Durham Women have made three signings, bringing in midfielder Emily Scott from Middlesborough, along with Newcastle United Women's defenders Sarah Wilson and Natalie Henderson.
Oxford United Women have brought in young Liverpool Ladies defender Megan Alexander on loan till the end of the season.
A comparably quiet transfer window, the 2nd part of the season has to squeeze in 2 thirds of the matches left in 3 and a half months a lot of football to be played everyone's squads will be put to the test.
UPDATE: A couple more signings were announced by WSL 1 clubs on the 4th of July, both from clubs who hadn't brought in any new players. Firstly Birmingham City Ladies signed Abbey-Leigh Stringer from Aston Villa Ladies.
Arsenal Ladies added another midfielder to their playing staff bringing in German U23 international Turid Knaak in on loan for two months from Bayer Leverkusen.
A fan of the sport doing my small part to help promote the women's game
Showing posts with label Transfer News. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Transfer News. Show all posts
Thursday, 3 July 2014
Friday, 11 April 2014
WSL 2 The Clubs & Predictions
A new season of the WSL begins next week and after 3 season's of a single division of 8 teams the 2014 campaign will feature a 2nd tier, 10 new teams having won in the bidding process to compete. Bringing with it promotion and relegation between the 2 leagues (promotion subject to meeting FA criteria for WSL1). I'm very much looking forwards to seeing all 10 teams play over the coming season in what is a new era for women's football in England.
Let's start with a brief run down of the 10 teams, who they are, who they've brought in how I feel they might fair over the coming season.
Aston Villa Ladies
The current Women's Premier League Cup holders Aston Villa Ladies have a strong tradition of bringing players through their youth system which makes up the bulk of their squad and includes England U19 Internationals Caitlin Leach and Sarah Mayling along with Sherry MuCue who starred for the U19's herself last summer and made her U23's debut in La Manga earlier this year. Play at Sutton Coldfield on a 3G surface, have visited the ground nice stadium with good facilites. Have brought in 5 new signings for the new season, Emily Owen and Natasha Baptiste (both from West Brom) Hannah Williams and Lauren Walker (both from Wolves) and Alicia Robertson recently returned from the United States.
WSL 2 Prediction - mid-table
Doncaster Rovers Belles
I said 10 new teams... and that isn't quite correct Doncaster Rovers Belles as most of you know were founding members of the WSL back in 2011. The WSL bidding process for both new leagues 1 and 2 caused a fair bit of controversy namely because Doncaster Rovers Belles found themselves 'relegated' after just one match of the 2013 season. Know my opinion unfair and not handled well by FA whatever reasons were given it did affect the rest of Doncaster's season and they did finish bottom. New season = new beginning can't turn back the clock. It is just possible the FA inadvertantly made a stronger Doncaster as a club.
I've mentioned it before but the best bit of transfer business this winter is probably Doncaster not losing any of their players have retained the services of the likes of Sue Smith, Millie Bright and Jessica Sigsworth. Have a new manager in Gordon Staniforth who has brought in Reanne Thomas from Nottingham Forest, goalkeeper Shannon McCarney from Leeds, Hope Knight from Notts County and Sophie Stamp from the North Yorkshire Centre of Excellence. Playing at the Keepmoat Stadium they will be one of the teams to beat this season which will bring a new challenge.
WSL 2 Prediction - title contenders
Durham Women FC
The criteria laid out by the FA for joining the WSL set up was that a club be either affiliated with a men's club or form a partnership with an educational body. The latter has been the case with what was to most a brand new team when the WSL 2 franchises were announced is a new venture formed by the then Northern Combination set up South Durham & Cestria in partnership with Durham University who have experience in funding and promoting sports franchises in the form of Durham Wildcats who play in the National Basketball League.
Have brought in some experienced players such as the Irish international Seana Cooke from Raheny United to compliment their squad of young players that include a couple of youth internationals, Scottish U19's Zoe Ness and England U19's Beth Hepple. Have recently appointed Rob Atkin as their new Head Coach.
WSL 2 Prediction - bottom half
London Bees
Like Durham, London Bees have formed a partnership with an educational body in Stanmore College and at their launch announced what they described as one of the biggest sponsorship deals in women's football in England. Certainly have ambitious plans London Bees is essentially a rebranding of Barnet Ladies FC, the new club looking to form an identity as a club that belongs to the whole of London and is a great idea. That identity might take a while to break free especially as the club is going to play it's home games at The Hive home of Barnet FC, a nice stadium again great facilities for players and fans.
At the launch the club was a little short of playing staff and didn't have a 1st team manager. To that end the club have been busy recruiting and have brought in goalkeepers Cherie Rowlands and Sophie Harris from Arsenal, Sydney Hincliffe and Dawn Mallett from Stoke, Danielle Oates from Blackburn and Sophie Forgarty who has been starring fo QPR Ladies this season. Their last appointment was bringing in a 1st team manager just last week in Tom Donati who had previously been coaching Barnet FC's U18's
WSL 2 Prediction - bottom half
Millwall Lionesses
Have been a prominant force for women's football for many years particulary in the 80's and 90's Millwall Lionesses have perhaps one of the longest associations with their respective men's club and to that end have been successful in winning a place in the new WSL 2 will be playing their home games this season at The Den home of Millwall FC a nice modern built stadium that recently hosted the England Women's World Cup Qualifying match with Wales. Manager Alberto Kurti has brought in a number of experienced players over the close season the most prominant being Liverpool Ladies title winning goalkeeper Sarah Quantrill. Has also brought in Lillie Billson after her spell at Lincoln, aswell as defender Kylie Davies from Chelsea, England U23 star Naomi Cole from Lewes and Brighton trio Sophie Perry, Lily Agg and Kim Stenning.
WSL 2 Prediction - top four, title outsiders
Oxford United WFC
The 2102/13 South West Combination league winners enjoy a strong affiliation with the men's club and have a very good centre of excellence from which the bulk of their playing squad is made up for the coming WSL 2 season. Have brought in ex Oxford player Les Taylor as manager for the new campaign. Have the largest squad of players in WSL 2 goalkeeper Demi Lambourne has experience with England U19's. The club will play it's home matches at Abingdon United FC.
WSL 2 Prediction - bottom half
Reading FC Women
Reading FC Women captured everyone's attention early on as the club brought in long serving Arsenal and Wales midfield star Jayne Ludlow as their new 1st team manager. Ludlow in turn has brought in a number of players from her former club most notably that of fellow long serving Arsenal defender Ciara Grant along with former reserve players Lauren Bruton, Alexandra Keown, Zoe Cunningham, Rebecca Danbridge and Molly Bartrip. Also swooped for Chelsea and Wales striker Helen Ward. Welsh goalkeeper Nicola Davies from Doncaster. Eartha Pond from QPR and Geogina Giddings and Kirsty McGee from Portsmouth.
Have a strong centre of excellence and a player to look out for will be Fran Kirby who recently played for England U23's. Have signed a deal to play this seasons home games at Farnborough FC although they will be making their WSL 2 debut on the 16th at the Madejski Stadium against Yeovil Town Ladies.
WSL 2 Prediction - top three title challengers
Sunderland AFC Ladies
A lot of people felt it should have been Sunderland and not Manchester City Ladies that had won a place in WSL 1. They had been since the WSL was formed in 2011 the WPL winners on 3 occasions. Despite that success the club was only intrigrated with the men's club in 2013 as part of the winning bid criteria. They too have a very good history of youth development. Have as their tailsman the prolific goal scorer Beth Mead who has performed very well at England youth level scoring goals recently to help the U19's qualify for the Euro's.
Fellow striker Abby Joyce has featured for the England U19's and Brogan McHugh who is an u17 international. The club also has two senior Northern Ireland internationals in their ranks midfielders Rachel Furness and Sarah McFadden.
WSL 2 Prediction - title contenders
Watford Ladies FC
Another club with a good record of producing good young players Watford have a strong youth set up and make up the bulk of the Hertfordshire women's squad that clinched this years East Anglia Championship. Have the talented Welsh international Sarah Wiltshire who has had a very successful loan spell with Cardiff City Ladies. Have also strengthed their squad for the upcoming WSL 2 campaign by bringing in former player Bonnie Horwood after her 3 year stint with Lincoln Ladies along with Katie Knell and Stacey Donnelly from Reading and striker Gemma Bryan from LA Strikers. Will play their home games this coming season at Berkhamsted FC.
WSL 2 Prediction - mid-table
Yeovil Town Ladies FC
This will be the longest trip for myself to make to see Yeovil Town Ladies play. The Somerset club affiliated with the men's club won the South West Combination league in 2011/12 before winning a place in the new WSL 2. Are one of the most proactive clubs on twitter. Manager Sarah Lawler has brought in a couple of high profile and local players to boost the playing squad in former Chelsea and Bristol midfielder Katie Sherwood along with Welsh international Helen Bleazard formerly with Chelsea. Striker Jemma Tewkesbury has come in from Portsmouth along with midfielder Jade Kirby and Natalie Haigh from Swindon Spitfires. A locally based squad the club will play it's home games at Sherbourne Town FC.
WSL 2 Prediction- bottom half
It is tough to make an accurate prediction when so many teams are unknown to me and the league like WSL 1 will perhaps take a while to settle down. Expect Doncaster and Sunderland to be strong contenders for the title with Reading and Millwall close behind as for the rest best to wait and see. Get an early look at the new league as Oxford United WFC play the opening and history making game of the 2014 campaign this coming Monday the 14th the visitors London Bees before everyone else takes their bow on the 16th & 17th. Hope to see a great deal of WSL 2 aswell as WSL 1 over the coming months.. so close now.
Let's start with a brief run down of the 10 teams, who they are, who they've brought in how I feel they might fair over the coming season.
Aston Villa Ladies
The current Women's Premier League Cup holders Aston Villa Ladies have a strong tradition of bringing players through their youth system which makes up the bulk of their squad and includes England U19 Internationals Caitlin Leach and Sarah Mayling along with Sherry MuCue who starred for the U19's herself last summer and made her U23's debut in La Manga earlier this year. Play at Sutton Coldfield on a 3G surface, have visited the ground nice stadium with good facilites. Have brought in 5 new signings for the new season, Emily Owen and Natasha Baptiste (both from West Brom) Hannah Williams and Lauren Walker (both from Wolves) and Alicia Robertson recently returned from the United States.
WSL 2 Prediction - mid-table
Doncaster Rovers Belles
I said 10 new teams... and that isn't quite correct Doncaster Rovers Belles as most of you know were founding members of the WSL back in 2011. The WSL bidding process for both new leagues 1 and 2 caused a fair bit of controversy namely because Doncaster Rovers Belles found themselves 'relegated' after just one match of the 2013 season. Know my opinion unfair and not handled well by FA whatever reasons were given it did affect the rest of Doncaster's season and they did finish bottom. New season = new beginning can't turn back the clock. It is just possible the FA inadvertantly made a stronger Doncaster as a club.
I've mentioned it before but the best bit of transfer business this winter is probably Doncaster not losing any of their players have retained the services of the likes of Sue Smith, Millie Bright and Jessica Sigsworth. Have a new manager in Gordon Staniforth who has brought in Reanne Thomas from Nottingham Forest, goalkeeper Shannon McCarney from Leeds, Hope Knight from Notts County and Sophie Stamp from the North Yorkshire Centre of Excellence. Playing at the Keepmoat Stadium they will be one of the teams to beat this season which will bring a new challenge.
WSL 2 Prediction - title contenders
Durham Women FC
The criteria laid out by the FA for joining the WSL set up was that a club be either affiliated with a men's club or form a partnership with an educational body. The latter has been the case with what was to most a brand new team when the WSL 2 franchises were announced is a new venture formed by the then Northern Combination set up South Durham & Cestria in partnership with Durham University who have experience in funding and promoting sports franchises in the form of Durham Wildcats who play in the National Basketball League.
Have brought in some experienced players such as the Irish international Seana Cooke from Raheny United to compliment their squad of young players that include a couple of youth internationals, Scottish U19's Zoe Ness and England U19's Beth Hepple. Have recently appointed Rob Atkin as their new Head Coach.
WSL 2 Prediction - bottom half
London Bees
Like Durham, London Bees have formed a partnership with an educational body in Stanmore College and at their launch announced what they described as one of the biggest sponsorship deals in women's football in England. Certainly have ambitious plans London Bees is essentially a rebranding of Barnet Ladies FC, the new club looking to form an identity as a club that belongs to the whole of London and is a great idea. That identity might take a while to break free especially as the club is going to play it's home games at The Hive home of Barnet FC, a nice stadium again great facilities for players and fans.
At the launch the club was a little short of playing staff and didn't have a 1st team manager. To that end the club have been busy recruiting and have brought in goalkeepers Cherie Rowlands and Sophie Harris from Arsenal, Sydney Hincliffe and Dawn Mallett from Stoke, Danielle Oates from Blackburn and Sophie Forgarty who has been starring fo QPR Ladies this season. Their last appointment was bringing in a 1st team manager just last week in Tom Donati who had previously been coaching Barnet FC's U18's
WSL 2 Prediction - bottom half
Millwall Lionesses
Have been a prominant force for women's football for many years particulary in the 80's and 90's Millwall Lionesses have perhaps one of the longest associations with their respective men's club and to that end have been successful in winning a place in the new WSL 2 will be playing their home games this season at The Den home of Millwall FC a nice modern built stadium that recently hosted the England Women's World Cup Qualifying match with Wales. Manager Alberto Kurti has brought in a number of experienced players over the close season the most prominant being Liverpool Ladies title winning goalkeeper Sarah Quantrill. Has also brought in Lillie Billson after her spell at Lincoln, aswell as defender Kylie Davies from Chelsea, England U23 star Naomi Cole from Lewes and Brighton trio Sophie Perry, Lily Agg and Kim Stenning.
WSL 2 Prediction - top four, title outsiders
Oxford United WFC
The 2102/13 South West Combination league winners enjoy a strong affiliation with the men's club and have a very good centre of excellence from which the bulk of their playing squad is made up for the coming WSL 2 season. Have brought in ex Oxford player Les Taylor as manager for the new campaign. Have the largest squad of players in WSL 2 goalkeeper Demi Lambourne has experience with England U19's. The club will play it's home matches at Abingdon United FC.
WSL 2 Prediction - bottom half
Reading FC Women
Reading FC Women captured everyone's attention early on as the club brought in long serving Arsenal and Wales midfield star Jayne Ludlow as their new 1st team manager. Ludlow in turn has brought in a number of players from her former club most notably that of fellow long serving Arsenal defender Ciara Grant along with former reserve players Lauren Bruton, Alexandra Keown, Zoe Cunningham, Rebecca Danbridge and Molly Bartrip. Also swooped for Chelsea and Wales striker Helen Ward. Welsh goalkeeper Nicola Davies from Doncaster. Eartha Pond from QPR and Geogina Giddings and Kirsty McGee from Portsmouth.
Have a strong centre of excellence and a player to look out for will be Fran Kirby who recently played for England U23's. Have signed a deal to play this seasons home games at Farnborough FC although they will be making their WSL 2 debut on the 16th at the Madejski Stadium against Yeovil Town Ladies.
WSL 2 Prediction - top three title challengers
Sunderland AFC Ladies
A lot of people felt it should have been Sunderland and not Manchester City Ladies that had won a place in WSL 1. They had been since the WSL was formed in 2011 the WPL winners on 3 occasions. Despite that success the club was only intrigrated with the men's club in 2013 as part of the winning bid criteria. They too have a very good history of youth development. Have as their tailsman the prolific goal scorer Beth Mead who has performed very well at England youth level scoring goals recently to help the U19's qualify for the Euro's.
Fellow striker Abby Joyce has featured for the England U19's and Brogan McHugh who is an u17 international. The club also has two senior Northern Ireland internationals in their ranks midfielders Rachel Furness and Sarah McFadden.
WSL 2 Prediction - title contenders
Watford Ladies FC
Another club with a good record of producing good young players Watford have a strong youth set up and make up the bulk of the Hertfordshire women's squad that clinched this years East Anglia Championship. Have the talented Welsh international Sarah Wiltshire who has had a very successful loan spell with Cardiff City Ladies. Have also strengthed their squad for the upcoming WSL 2 campaign by bringing in former player Bonnie Horwood after her 3 year stint with Lincoln Ladies along with Katie Knell and Stacey Donnelly from Reading and striker Gemma Bryan from LA Strikers. Will play their home games this coming season at Berkhamsted FC.
WSL 2 Prediction - mid-table
Yeovil Town Ladies FC
This will be the longest trip for myself to make to see Yeovil Town Ladies play. The Somerset club affiliated with the men's club won the South West Combination league in 2011/12 before winning a place in the new WSL 2. Are one of the most proactive clubs on twitter. Manager Sarah Lawler has brought in a couple of high profile and local players to boost the playing squad in former Chelsea and Bristol midfielder Katie Sherwood along with Welsh international Helen Bleazard formerly with Chelsea. Striker Jemma Tewkesbury has come in from Portsmouth along with midfielder Jade Kirby and Natalie Haigh from Swindon Spitfires. A locally based squad the club will play it's home games at Sherbourne Town FC.
WSL 2 Prediction- bottom half
It is tough to make an accurate prediction when so many teams are unknown to me and the league like WSL 1 will perhaps take a while to settle down. Expect Doncaster and Sunderland to be strong contenders for the title with Reading and Millwall close behind as for the rest best to wait and see. Get an early look at the new league as Oxford United WFC play the opening and history making game of the 2014 campaign this coming Monday the 14th the visitors London Bees before everyone else takes their bow on the 16th & 17th. Hope to see a great deal of WSL 2 aswell as WSL 1 over the coming months.. so close now.
Thursday, 3 April 2014
WSL Transfer Buzz part 3 Conclusion & Predictions?
Boy this has been a long transfer period have had to wait to write this third installment of the WSL Transfer Buzz, the activity has been tame compared to the previous two installments it was just a case of waiting for a deadline it is as far as I'm aware midnight tonight but Jim White of Sky Sports isn't interested so if you were hoping to make a fool of yourself behind some unfortunate reporter just to get on tv, you'll have to make do and read this instead.
Let's start with the 1st WSL 1 signing of February and that was the announcement from Liverpool Ladies that they had signed Lucy Staniforth from Bristol Academy. A very good young English midfield player with a good set piece in her locker, just returning from a long term absence from the game with an ACL injury we all know what happened next was struck with the most terrible thing that could happen she injured the other knee again ACL and is once more sidelined, wish her the very best in her recovery and she will hopefully make a full recovery and come back stronger.
On that same day Everton Ladies the quietest WSL 1 club on the transfer front brought in to young and promising players in goalkeeper Megan Walsh from Aston Villa along with Gabrielle George a central defender who I'd seen play recently at the U17's Euro's promising talent a defender comfortable on the ball one to look out for in the future no doubt.
Two days later the rumours were confirmed as Izzy Christiansen became a Manchester City player having left Birmingham. A very talented forward player sure Birmingham would have loved to have kept her but will be a huge asset for the new entrants to WSL 1.
Arsenel Ladies had seen a raft of experienced players leave the club the squad needed some depth and Shelley Kerr brought in two World Cup Winners from Japan the attacked minded Shinobu Ohno and the experienced defender Yukari Kinga, both with vast experience they will be big players for Arsenal and the game in England but will need time to settle in.
Bristol Academy having gotten their manager sorted out have made 3 signings after getting most of last season's runner-up team to stay. Brought in midfielder Sophie Ingle from Chelsea and defender Frankie Brown from Hibernian. The key position to fill was that of goalkeeper having lost the experienced Siobhan Chamberlain to Arsenal. Birmingham put out a statement that Mary Earps was leaving to find a new challenge it was no surprise she popped up in Bristol, having just gotten a call up into the senior England side though she is amongst a host of young goalkeeping talents new manager Mark Sampson will be keeping an eye on.
Notts County Ladies has it seems done all their business but as from the last entry they were very busy. Birmingham City Ladies have gone down a different path by investing in youth added to this policy by signing a very bright talent in Meaghan Sargeant whom had left Lincoln at the end of the WSL 2013 campaign had formed an good partnership in defence with the U19's last summer with Birmingham's Aoife Mannion.
That leaves Chelsea and they are left till last because they left it late having today announced the signing of 22-year-old Chilean goalkeeper Christiane Endler as competition for Marie Hourihan. Chelsea have also brought in Jackie Groenen from FCR 2001 Duisburg the Belgian a very talented attack minded player.
Going to save WSL 2 for a separate post because there's a lot to discuss...
Predictions?
I know this is what you've been waiting for so here goes....
Yes... you could put all 8 teams in a HAT and draw them out as to make a prediction on how the final table will look, such has been the sheer amount of transfer activity and changes at clubs rebrandings to new teams rafts of departures and likewise arrivals It will take a few games for a lot of teams to settle down get used to the league and their new team mates, new venues and new fan bases more than half the clubs are under extreme pressure to do not just ok but very well indeed. Results will be unpredictable can't empthasize how important a good start is points on the board, playing catch up with just 14 games to play with will be tough.
That said we can all speculate and have an opinion... and most of you know I have one of those! One thing I like to do is select what I think is a teams strongest XI then 3 subs so you can see why I needed this transfer window to settle down at one point one team didn't even have XI but that's all changed now. I do think Liverpool Ladies will be the team to beat this season have a settled squad Lucy Staniforth's time to make an impact will come for the title holders they had a 2nd blow in ACL's though as German Nicole Rosler did her's and is out long term a star player she will be missed.
I still think they have enough to retain the title.... behind them is where it get's interesting... so here goes...
Liverpool
Arsenal
Chelsea
Bristol
Birmingham
Notts County
Everton
Manchester City
Of course positions 2-8 could be upside down will as I say depend on a teams start will be a scramble lot's of factors to put into the mix, Manchester Cities inexperience at the top level against Everton's long standing history at the top level. Notts County's bold new team are they under pressure to do well? Can Bristol repeat last years great performance in challenging for the title right till the final day. Birmingham's youthful approach can play without fear or expectation. Will Arsenal's emerge from their transitional period quick enough or will Chelsea and their big name stars gel quicker and find their feet. Lot's a find out over the coming months and we'll find out soon enough can't wait for WSL 2014 to begin.
Let's start with the 1st WSL 1 signing of February and that was the announcement from Liverpool Ladies that they had signed Lucy Staniforth from Bristol Academy. A very good young English midfield player with a good set piece in her locker, just returning from a long term absence from the game with an ACL injury we all know what happened next was struck with the most terrible thing that could happen she injured the other knee again ACL and is once more sidelined, wish her the very best in her recovery and she will hopefully make a full recovery and come back stronger.
On that same day Everton Ladies the quietest WSL 1 club on the transfer front brought in to young and promising players in goalkeeper Megan Walsh from Aston Villa along with Gabrielle George a central defender who I'd seen play recently at the U17's Euro's promising talent a defender comfortable on the ball one to look out for in the future no doubt.
Two days later the rumours were confirmed as Izzy Christiansen became a Manchester City player having left Birmingham. A very talented forward player sure Birmingham would have loved to have kept her but will be a huge asset for the new entrants to WSL 1.
Arsenel Ladies had seen a raft of experienced players leave the club the squad needed some depth and Shelley Kerr brought in two World Cup Winners from Japan the attacked minded Shinobu Ohno and the experienced defender Yukari Kinga, both with vast experience they will be big players for Arsenal and the game in England but will need time to settle in.
Bristol Academy having gotten their manager sorted out have made 3 signings after getting most of last season's runner-up team to stay. Brought in midfielder Sophie Ingle from Chelsea and defender Frankie Brown from Hibernian. The key position to fill was that of goalkeeper having lost the experienced Siobhan Chamberlain to Arsenal. Birmingham put out a statement that Mary Earps was leaving to find a new challenge it was no surprise she popped up in Bristol, having just gotten a call up into the senior England side though she is amongst a host of young goalkeeping talents new manager Mark Sampson will be keeping an eye on.
Notts County Ladies has it seems done all their business but as from the last entry they were very busy. Birmingham City Ladies have gone down a different path by investing in youth added to this policy by signing a very bright talent in Meaghan Sargeant whom had left Lincoln at the end of the WSL 2013 campaign had formed an good partnership in defence with the U19's last summer with Birmingham's Aoife Mannion.
That leaves Chelsea and they are left till last because they left it late having today announced the signing of 22-year-old Chilean goalkeeper Christiane Endler as competition for Marie Hourihan. Chelsea have also brought in Jackie Groenen from FCR 2001 Duisburg the Belgian a very talented attack minded player.
Going to save WSL 2 for a separate post because there's a lot to discuss...
Predictions?
I know this is what you've been waiting for so here goes....
Yes... you could put all 8 teams in a HAT and draw them out as to make a prediction on how the final table will look, such has been the sheer amount of transfer activity and changes at clubs rebrandings to new teams rafts of departures and likewise arrivals It will take a few games for a lot of teams to settle down get used to the league and their new team mates, new venues and new fan bases more than half the clubs are under extreme pressure to do not just ok but very well indeed. Results will be unpredictable can't empthasize how important a good start is points on the board, playing catch up with just 14 games to play with will be tough.
That said we can all speculate and have an opinion... and most of you know I have one of those! One thing I like to do is select what I think is a teams strongest XI then 3 subs so you can see why I needed this transfer window to settle down at one point one team didn't even have XI but that's all changed now. I do think Liverpool Ladies will be the team to beat this season have a settled squad Lucy Staniforth's time to make an impact will come for the title holders they had a 2nd blow in ACL's though as German Nicole Rosler did her's and is out long term a star player she will be missed.
I still think they have enough to retain the title.... behind them is where it get's interesting... so here goes...
Liverpool
Arsenal
Chelsea
Bristol
Birmingham
Notts County
Everton
Manchester City
Of course positions 2-8 could be upside down will as I say depend on a teams start will be a scramble lot's of factors to put into the mix, Manchester Cities inexperience at the top level against Everton's long standing history at the top level. Notts County's bold new team are they under pressure to do well? Can Bristol repeat last years great performance in challenging for the title right till the final day. Birmingham's youthful approach can play without fear or expectation. Will Arsenal's emerge from their transitional period quick enough or will Chelsea and their big name stars gel quicker and find their feet. Lot's a find out over the coming months and we'll find out soon enough can't wait for WSL 2014 to begin.
Friday, 31 January 2014
WSL Transfer Buzz part 2
Safe to say a part 2 concerning the transfer comings and goings within the WSL this winter period was a good call because the activity between the various clubs has only intensified in regards to player movement and even though it still isn't over yet think it's time for an update of just who's gone where. Part 1 of the WSL Transfer Buzz wrapped up the deals done till the 21st of December and we all knew then there were still deals to be done but on this scale.....
Guess the best place to start with is Notts County Ladies who had worringly not done alot before Christmas and had barely enough players left from the Lincoln set up to make up a team let alone a squad. That was to change big time over these next four weeks 1st in was Carly Telford, the goalkeeper I thought might come to Notts and be reunited with Rick Passmoor who like Ellen White who'd come in earlier played for him during their Leeds days. There were departures but I'll come onto those. Come 2nd Jan it was the clubs marquee signing the only one they've brought in that's made me go "Wow!" Canadian international midfielder Diseree Scott, (The Destroyer) a real coup for the WSL club. Two New Zealand internationals were to sign shortly afterwards midfielder Katie Hoyle and full back Anna Greene both extremely experienced. In between these two signing was that of Scottish defender Rachel Corsie from Glasgow City... at last the squad looked more balanced and looked like it would be a competive force in the WSL in 2014.
The club wasn't done there however as this past week has seen a further raft of new players coming in firstly Melbourne Victory striker Caitlin Friend who has been in great scoring form in the W League this season. Yesterday saw not 1... not 2... but 3 new players arriving all vastly experienced and English in midfielder Katie Holtham who is from the Nottingham area, Dunia Susi a very versatile player who mainly operates at right back although I think she can do a good job further up the pitch and lastly Rachel Unitt, a long time favourite of mine brings a wealth of experience to the back line. It wouldn't surprise me if Notts aren't finished yet but this is now a very competitive squad vastly changed from last season of course, but then so was the Liverpool team that took the WSL title last season at the moment I'd think only Jess Clarke and Sophie Bradley would be regular starters but who knows.
There have of course been departures from the club alot of fans favourites with Martha Harris and Karen Bardsly moving to Liverpool and Manchester City respectfully, it was another crowd favorite that moved on the 24th December, Remi Allen to Birmingham a great signing in my opinion Potter and Moore are as good a midfield pair as any in the WSL and adding Remi Allen to that will make the middle of the park a tough place to be. Birmingham also brought in attacker Hannah Keryakoplis. Losing Rachel Unitt was a blow her experience will be missed. Also the club revealed Isobel Christiansen was in talks with another WSL club but as of now nothing has been revealed.
Casey Stoney another crowd favourite opted not to sign a new deal at Notts and took on a new challenge going back to Arsenal Ladies at last another welcome signing for the club after bringing in Siobhan Chamberlain. Vastly experienced and perfect for a club in transition as players come and go. Arsenal brought in another player with plenty of experience and previous knowledge of the WSL in Dutch star Anouk Hoogendijk. With players leaving in droves it seemed it must have been a relief when 1st Rachel Yankey, then Kelly Smith commited themselves to the club and let's hope the latter especially can have an injury free season as Kelly still has so much to offer. The club needed to bring in additional attacking options and did so yesterday (30th) with the signing of Scottish player Christie Murray, again from Glasgow City. Arsenal still has a very strong starting XI could do with additions to fill the squad.
Two big departures from the club however were to the benefit of fellow London club Chelsea as Emma Hayes got the signatures of both Katie Chapman and Gilly Flaherty which gives the club an impressive looking spine with Laura Bassett and Eniola Aluko. This week they announced the signing of South Korean star Ji So-Yun who will bring something very different to women's football in England and just today (31st) Swedish player Emma Wilhelmsson. They like Notts will be extremely competitive this season.
Liverpool had only brought in two players so far and when you have a settled and successful team I think that's all you need, they did however require a new goalkeeper and have signed American Libby Stout from BV Cloppenburg. Their Merseyside rivals have still only made the one signing in Abby Pope but having long term injury victim Fern Whelan returning will be a huge boost have also named Michelle Hinnigan as captain.
Bristol Academy having lost their manager Mark Sampson needed a replacement and have brought in Dave Edmondson currently coaching in Australia with W League outfit Melbourne Victory will be interesting to see whether he brings anyone over with him. The club has worked hard to secure the signatures of the squad that done so well to clinch second place last season but as yet no news on a new goalkeeper following the departure of Siobhan Chamberlain.
That leaves Manchester City the team I think everyone expected to do what Notts County has done and buy a new team instead they have been quite sensible in the transfer market gone with the let's find our feet first approach which I think is good as they are the new team to the league have signed Jess Holbrook from Liverpool along with Danielle Young from Blackburn Rovers and Emma Lipman from Leeds. Were launched/relaunched earlier this month becoming Manchester City Women as a pose to Ladies will be a force but maybe not title challenges... yet.
There are still no doubt a few more to come and go two or three notable names still out there more anouncements to come but the teams and coming season is taking shape now, it does need to settle down and it'll be great when at last the football can do the talking.
Guess the best place to start with is Notts County Ladies who had worringly not done alot before Christmas and had barely enough players left from the Lincoln set up to make up a team let alone a squad. That was to change big time over these next four weeks 1st in was Carly Telford, the goalkeeper I thought might come to Notts and be reunited with Rick Passmoor who like Ellen White who'd come in earlier played for him during their Leeds days. There were departures but I'll come onto those. Come 2nd Jan it was the clubs marquee signing the only one they've brought in that's made me go "Wow!" Canadian international midfielder Diseree Scott, (The Destroyer) a real coup for the WSL club. Two New Zealand internationals were to sign shortly afterwards midfielder Katie Hoyle and full back Anna Greene both extremely experienced. In between these two signing was that of Scottish defender Rachel Corsie from Glasgow City... at last the squad looked more balanced and looked like it would be a competive force in the WSL in 2014.
The club wasn't done there however as this past week has seen a further raft of new players coming in firstly Melbourne Victory striker Caitlin Friend who has been in great scoring form in the W League this season. Yesterday saw not 1... not 2... but 3 new players arriving all vastly experienced and English in midfielder Katie Holtham who is from the Nottingham area, Dunia Susi a very versatile player who mainly operates at right back although I think she can do a good job further up the pitch and lastly Rachel Unitt, a long time favourite of mine brings a wealth of experience to the back line. It wouldn't surprise me if Notts aren't finished yet but this is now a very competitive squad vastly changed from last season of course, but then so was the Liverpool team that took the WSL title last season at the moment I'd think only Jess Clarke and Sophie Bradley would be regular starters but who knows.
There have of course been departures from the club alot of fans favourites with Martha Harris and Karen Bardsly moving to Liverpool and Manchester City respectfully, it was another crowd favorite that moved on the 24th December, Remi Allen to Birmingham a great signing in my opinion Potter and Moore are as good a midfield pair as any in the WSL and adding Remi Allen to that will make the middle of the park a tough place to be. Birmingham also brought in attacker Hannah Keryakoplis. Losing Rachel Unitt was a blow her experience will be missed. Also the club revealed Isobel Christiansen was in talks with another WSL club but as of now nothing has been revealed.
Casey Stoney another crowd favourite opted not to sign a new deal at Notts and took on a new challenge going back to Arsenal Ladies at last another welcome signing for the club after bringing in Siobhan Chamberlain. Vastly experienced and perfect for a club in transition as players come and go. Arsenal brought in another player with plenty of experience and previous knowledge of the WSL in Dutch star Anouk Hoogendijk. With players leaving in droves it seemed it must have been a relief when 1st Rachel Yankey, then Kelly Smith commited themselves to the club and let's hope the latter especially can have an injury free season as Kelly still has so much to offer. The club needed to bring in additional attacking options and did so yesterday (30th) with the signing of Scottish player Christie Murray, again from Glasgow City. Arsenal still has a very strong starting XI could do with additions to fill the squad.
Two big departures from the club however were to the benefit of fellow London club Chelsea as Emma Hayes got the signatures of both Katie Chapman and Gilly Flaherty which gives the club an impressive looking spine with Laura Bassett and Eniola Aluko. This week they announced the signing of South Korean star Ji So-Yun who will bring something very different to women's football in England and just today (31st) Swedish player Emma Wilhelmsson. They like Notts will be extremely competitive this season.
Liverpool had only brought in two players so far and when you have a settled and successful team I think that's all you need, they did however require a new goalkeeper and have signed American Libby Stout from BV Cloppenburg. Their Merseyside rivals have still only made the one signing in Abby Pope but having long term injury victim Fern Whelan returning will be a huge boost have also named Michelle Hinnigan as captain.
Bristol Academy having lost their manager Mark Sampson needed a replacement and have brought in Dave Edmondson currently coaching in Australia with W League outfit Melbourne Victory will be interesting to see whether he brings anyone over with him. The club has worked hard to secure the signatures of the squad that done so well to clinch second place last season but as yet no news on a new goalkeeper following the departure of Siobhan Chamberlain.
That leaves Manchester City the team I think everyone expected to do what Notts County has done and buy a new team instead they have been quite sensible in the transfer market gone with the let's find our feet first approach which I think is good as they are the new team to the league have signed Jess Holbrook from Liverpool along with Danielle Young from Blackburn Rovers and Emma Lipman from Leeds. Were launched/relaunched earlier this month becoming Manchester City Women as a pose to Ladies will be a force but maybe not title challenges... yet.
There are still no doubt a few more to come and go two or three notable names still out there more anouncements to come but the teams and coming season is taking shape now, it does need to settle down and it'll be great when at last the football can do the talking.
Saturday, 21 December 2013
WSL Transfer Buzz
Well I thought a blog entry on this WSL transfer period would be something I'd be rounding up when the dust had settled and the new season was ready to begin, but such has been the cyclone of activity blowing through the top tier of English women's football I feel it prudent to summarise the various comings and goings between clubs up to date.
After 3 seasons of an elite league of 8 unchanged teams the 2014 season brings with it change as the WSL gains a 2nd tier of 10 teams. It is the WSL 1 as it will become where there has been a great deal of movement of players. As of the 2014 season the WSL 1 has a new entrant in the form of Manchester City Ladies who somewhat controversally replaced Doncaster Rovers Belles who will been lining up in WSL 2 next season.
It is with Manchester City I will begin. A club with money behind it they got into the WSL set up at the expense of some established women's football names, nevertheless everyone expected them to spend big and bring in star names there were rumours galore one of the most notable being the arrival of USA international goalkeeper Hope Solo. As it was the goalkeeper who did arrive was something of a surprise in the form of current England No 1 Karen Bardsley from Lincoln Ladies. 1st to arrive however was her England team mate midfielder Jill Scott from Everton after deciding not to renew her contract, she was closely followed by another Everton star and England striker Toni Duggan. Now as far as I understand it a WSL team is allowed to have 4 England internationals in it's squad so it was a case of waiting to see whom the 4th would be with a goalkeeper, striker and midfielder a defender was required to complete the set and Manchester City signed versatile England player Steph Houghton from Arsenal. The club has also signed Steph Marsh from Blackburn Rovers Ladies.
The team has a solid spine but to be challenging for the title you would think they would still need to bring in 7/8 top signings but you have to walk before you can run and that might be an unrealistic aim for their 1st season of top football.
I say this however as I move onto Liverpool Ladies the current WSL champions, this after an injection of cash from the men's club see them go from rock bottom the previous 2 seasons to the top of the pile. Matt Beard brought in an entire new team of players then the English quartet as Manchester City have done but also the likes of oversea's internationals such as Whitney Engen, Louise Fors and Corina Schroder. Matt Beard has a strong squad at his disposal so my thought was only 2/3 additions would be needed to defend their title. The clubs 1st move was something of a surprise as they signed a player who was probably the best performer in the league in 2013 and certainly at her club Lincoln Ladies, England U19 international Martha Harris. An extremely shrewd transfer Matt Beard was to also sprung another coup in signing Gemma Davison from Arsenal Ladies in contrast to Martha Harris' huge potential she brings a wealth of experience and Natasha Dowie will thrive on her service. A surprise departure was goalkeeper Sarah Quantrill so Liverpool will be looking for a keeper expect 1 or 2 more in yet.
Likewise the team who finished 2nd last season Bristol Academy Women had a good blend of demestic players and 2 experienced Spanish strikers a surprise package to some, the teams achievements have no doubt helped their manager Mark Sampson as he takes up the ultimate challenge of becoming head coach of the English national team. As of yet no new players have come in although they have secured the services of striker Laura del Rio. One of the biggest transfer moves was the departure of goalkeeper Siobhan Chamberlain to Arsenal ladies. Need a manager installed quickly if they want to bring new players in.
This was something of a much needed boost to Arsenal Ladies fans as they had seen a host of star players leaving the club after their 3rd place finish and seemingly several more players yet to agree new contracts it is something of a transititional time for the long time unchallenged team in English women's football. Siobhan Chamberlain is a vastly experienced goalkeeper. It was however a little strange that their long serving Irish No 1 goalkeeper Emma Byrne signed a new deal as she has been unchallenged for years will be interesting to see how the club will accommodate both. It was at least a player coming into Arsenal Ladies will they be able a attract more, you would certainly think so and some more will sign new deals eventually.
Just as it was looking up for Arsenal another star player departed however this time another surprise move (have I said that already?) striker Ellen White rejoining her old manager Rick Passmoor at Notts County Ladies. The rebranded clubs 1st signing in this transfer period and the much needed goal scorer they were lacking in the previous campaign whilst still Lincoln Ladies. As some have pointed out she is a target player who thrived on the service the likes of Yankey, Davison and co provided at Arsenal. She will need players to help her and a look at the Notts County Ladies page on the FAWSL website shows you their squad is extremely thin on the ground. More players will be coming in no doubt this window has proved that and the club will need more if they want to push for a top half finish.
The 1st team to make a move in the transfer was Chelsea. Coach Emma Hayes undoubtedly disappointed with their 2nd bottom finish let several players go and was quick to snap up newly released striker Rachel Williams from Birmingham City Ladies. A proven goal scorer in the WSL she had a poor 2013 season and lost her England place linking up again with Eniola Aluko she will no doubt want to win it back and will need plenty of goals to do so. Joining her from Birmingham after finishing her contract was defender Laura Bassett.
Birmingham City Ladies have been quiet in this transfer period so far however that being said I like what manager David Parker is doing there as he has brought in a group of younger players the likes of Kirsty Linnett, Melissa Lawley and Aoife Mannion taking a different approach to other clubs you would still expect to see 1 or 2 arrivals yet.
That leaves Everton Ladies whose fans must be very deflated after seeing 1st Liverpool Ladies, and now Manchester City Ladies tempt their star players away. They like Birmingham City Ladies however have alot of young talented players and put out an announcement just last night that 16 of their players had committed to new deals another Fern Whelan adding her commitment to the club as she recovers from injury. A strong statement from the club it was good to see.
Still alot more to come I feel there are some notable free agents still out there such as Dunia Susi, Katie Holtham, Meaghan Sargeant and Carly Telford (and at least 3 teams might be after a new goalkeeper) more twists and turns shocks and surprises....stay tuned.
A brief mention for WSL 2 as there has been some surprising and eye opening moves as the 2nd teir gears up for the new season most notably from Yeovil Town Ladies who have signed up the experienced Katie Sherwood and Welsh international Helen Bleazard from the area who was released by Chelsea. Millwall Lionesses have swooped for goalkeeper Sarah Quantrill and striker Lillie Billson from Lincoln the later will be a threat in WSL 2 no doubt. Also Reading now with ex Arsenal star Jane Ludlow in charge have signed Welsh striker Helen Ward. Lastly and most notably Doncaster Rovers Belles haven't lost any players to date despite their demotion which is good news for the club and I'd be disappointed if a Belles fan didn't come on twitter and say 'damn right too!' WSL 2 could very well prove to be very interesting in 2014.
No doubt someone just signed for a club just 5 minutes ago but I shall leave it there for now.
After 3 seasons of an elite league of 8 unchanged teams the 2014 season brings with it change as the WSL gains a 2nd tier of 10 teams. It is the WSL 1 as it will become where there has been a great deal of movement of players. As of the 2014 season the WSL 1 has a new entrant in the form of Manchester City Ladies who somewhat controversally replaced Doncaster Rovers Belles who will been lining up in WSL 2 next season.
It is with Manchester City I will begin. A club with money behind it they got into the WSL set up at the expense of some established women's football names, nevertheless everyone expected them to spend big and bring in star names there were rumours galore one of the most notable being the arrival of USA international goalkeeper Hope Solo. As it was the goalkeeper who did arrive was something of a surprise in the form of current England No 1 Karen Bardsley from Lincoln Ladies. 1st to arrive however was her England team mate midfielder Jill Scott from Everton after deciding not to renew her contract, she was closely followed by another Everton star and England striker Toni Duggan. Now as far as I understand it a WSL team is allowed to have 4 England internationals in it's squad so it was a case of waiting to see whom the 4th would be with a goalkeeper, striker and midfielder a defender was required to complete the set and Manchester City signed versatile England player Steph Houghton from Arsenal. The club has also signed Steph Marsh from Blackburn Rovers Ladies.
The team has a solid spine but to be challenging for the title you would think they would still need to bring in 7/8 top signings but you have to walk before you can run and that might be an unrealistic aim for their 1st season of top football.
I say this however as I move onto Liverpool Ladies the current WSL champions, this after an injection of cash from the men's club see them go from rock bottom the previous 2 seasons to the top of the pile. Matt Beard brought in an entire new team of players then the English quartet as Manchester City have done but also the likes of oversea's internationals such as Whitney Engen, Louise Fors and Corina Schroder. Matt Beard has a strong squad at his disposal so my thought was only 2/3 additions would be needed to defend their title. The clubs 1st move was something of a surprise as they signed a player who was probably the best performer in the league in 2013 and certainly at her club Lincoln Ladies, England U19 international Martha Harris. An extremely shrewd transfer Matt Beard was to also sprung another coup in signing Gemma Davison from Arsenal Ladies in contrast to Martha Harris' huge potential she brings a wealth of experience and Natasha Dowie will thrive on her service. A surprise departure was goalkeeper Sarah Quantrill so Liverpool will be looking for a keeper expect 1 or 2 more in yet.
Likewise the team who finished 2nd last season Bristol Academy Women had a good blend of demestic players and 2 experienced Spanish strikers a surprise package to some, the teams achievements have no doubt helped their manager Mark Sampson as he takes up the ultimate challenge of becoming head coach of the English national team. As of yet no new players have come in although they have secured the services of striker Laura del Rio. One of the biggest transfer moves was the departure of goalkeeper Siobhan Chamberlain to Arsenal ladies. Need a manager installed quickly if they want to bring new players in.
This was something of a much needed boost to Arsenal Ladies fans as they had seen a host of star players leaving the club after their 3rd place finish and seemingly several more players yet to agree new contracts it is something of a transititional time for the long time unchallenged team in English women's football. Siobhan Chamberlain is a vastly experienced goalkeeper. It was however a little strange that their long serving Irish No 1 goalkeeper Emma Byrne signed a new deal as she has been unchallenged for years will be interesting to see how the club will accommodate both. It was at least a player coming into Arsenal Ladies will they be able a attract more, you would certainly think so and some more will sign new deals eventually.
Just as it was looking up for Arsenal another star player departed however this time another surprise move (have I said that already?) striker Ellen White rejoining her old manager Rick Passmoor at Notts County Ladies. The rebranded clubs 1st signing in this transfer period and the much needed goal scorer they were lacking in the previous campaign whilst still Lincoln Ladies. As some have pointed out she is a target player who thrived on the service the likes of Yankey, Davison and co provided at Arsenal. She will need players to help her and a look at the Notts County Ladies page on the FAWSL website shows you their squad is extremely thin on the ground. More players will be coming in no doubt this window has proved that and the club will need more if they want to push for a top half finish.
The 1st team to make a move in the transfer was Chelsea. Coach Emma Hayes undoubtedly disappointed with their 2nd bottom finish let several players go and was quick to snap up newly released striker Rachel Williams from Birmingham City Ladies. A proven goal scorer in the WSL she had a poor 2013 season and lost her England place linking up again with Eniola Aluko she will no doubt want to win it back and will need plenty of goals to do so. Joining her from Birmingham after finishing her contract was defender Laura Bassett.
Birmingham City Ladies have been quiet in this transfer period so far however that being said I like what manager David Parker is doing there as he has brought in a group of younger players the likes of Kirsty Linnett, Melissa Lawley and Aoife Mannion taking a different approach to other clubs you would still expect to see 1 or 2 arrivals yet.
That leaves Everton Ladies whose fans must be very deflated after seeing 1st Liverpool Ladies, and now Manchester City Ladies tempt their star players away. They like Birmingham City Ladies however have alot of young talented players and put out an announcement just last night that 16 of their players had committed to new deals another Fern Whelan adding her commitment to the club as she recovers from injury. A strong statement from the club it was good to see.
Still alot more to come I feel there are some notable free agents still out there such as Dunia Susi, Katie Holtham, Meaghan Sargeant and Carly Telford (and at least 3 teams might be after a new goalkeeper) more twists and turns shocks and surprises....stay tuned.
A brief mention for WSL 2 as there has been some surprising and eye opening moves as the 2nd teir gears up for the new season most notably from Yeovil Town Ladies who have signed up the experienced Katie Sherwood and Welsh international Helen Bleazard from the area who was released by Chelsea. Millwall Lionesses have swooped for goalkeeper Sarah Quantrill and striker Lillie Billson from Lincoln the later will be a threat in WSL 2 no doubt. Also Reading now with ex Arsenal star Jane Ludlow in charge have signed Welsh striker Helen Ward. Lastly and most notably Doncaster Rovers Belles haven't lost any players to date despite their demotion which is good news for the club and I'd be disappointed if a Belles fan didn't come on twitter and say 'damn right too!' WSL 2 could very well prove to be very interesting in 2014.
No doubt someone just signed for a club just 5 minutes ago but I shall leave it there for now.
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