Following a jam-packed winter transfer window, a pool of Her Football Hub writers have picked their ‘one to watch’ signings in the Women’s Super League.
Emma Kelly – Birmingham City (@HannahClarke910)
The versatility of new Birmingham City signing Emma Kelly will give the Blues more options in attack to help them climb up the table.
The former England U17 and U19 attacking midfielder joins from Icelandic club IBV Vestmannaeyjar. Kelly also helped Sunderland win the Women’s Championship title in the 2014 season.
With some important games coming up for City, Kelly’s ability to play up front, on the wings or in the number ten position will certainly keep opponents on their toes.
The 22-year-old is no stranger to English football. She made a positive impact for Birmingham after coming on as a substitute against table toppers Manchester City.
Sam Kerr – Chelsea (@CalebARadford)
Sam Kerr is the best footballer in the world. Well, she’s about to be.
There’s definitely stiff competition from the likes of Vivianne Miedema, Ada Hegerberg and Lucy Bronze. But Kerr will prove herself worthy of that title. She’ll dominate the WSL just as she has dominated every other league she’s played in.
She is arguably one of the most anticipated signings from this winter window, meaning there’s lots of pressure to perform.
In 219 career appearances, she has 149 goals and 40 assists – not to mention, three golden boots and two MVP awards.
Embed from Getty ImagesThe reason many are yet to appropriately crown her queen is because she’s yet to truly test herself in Europe — but she’s here now. Chelsea might have just have the league wrapped up with this signing.
Filippa Wallen – West Ham (@EllMatthews95)
In the divide that is growing in the WSL, it’s becoming more and more important that the teams outside of the top three, be much smarter with their recruitment.
West Ham may have started on those steps with the signing of Filippa Wallen from IF Brommapojkarn. The Swedish youth international could prove to be one of the most astute signings of the last few seasons.
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Wallen played 25 games over the last season for IF Brommapojkarna, scoring her first professional goal as well. There could be more goals in store for Wallen in West Ham colours, as she previously played in a leaky defence.
Embed from Getty ImagesThe 19-year-old full-back is a top signing for the Hammers. Having performed well in a strong European league at such a young age, it’s also no secret that Sweden has produced some of the best players in Europe over the last few decades.
West Ham have essentially signed a win-win situation. A small fee was used to acquire the services of Wallen, so should she not make the step-up to the first team, the loss of finances will not be significant.
Wallen is certainly one to watch. An attacking full back, with enthusiasm and the world at her feet. She is almost certain to have a bright future – whether it be in the WSL or elsewhere– and she could be the start of a West Ham rejuvenation.
Caitlin Foord – Arsenal (@antstonelake)
Arsenal have played the joint-fewest amount of players this season (17). The Gunners needed depth and they have pulled an absolute worldie in procuring Caitlin Foord.
The 25-year-old Australian will fit Joe Montemurro’s side like a glove and is the versatile player that they need. Her best goal-scoring season came in 2018-19, when she bagged nine in 12 appearances for Sydney.
Embed from Getty ImagesEven with that goal-scoring record, she does so much more that score goals. Her influence on an attacking passage of play is undeniable and any team she plays for looks more dangerous when she’s got the ball at her feet.
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Foord can literally play anywhere, and that will suit Arsenal. They have found themselves an Aussie gem to go with their Aussie gaffer.
Jeon Ga-eul – Bristol City (@DrewDiamondLtd)
Bristol City have made several signings this window and Tanya Oxtoby has managed to acquire the services of 31-year-old South Korean international Jeon Ga-eul.
Jeon has an absolute wealth of experience to hand as a forward, an area Bristol City could use back up in during their upcoming relegation fight.
Embed from Getty ImagesJeon has not only played in the NWSL, but won the league back in 2016 with New York. She also was the first ever woman to represent Korea in the A-League, and whilst doing all this has amassed 101 international caps, scoring 38 goals.
With Bristol lacking goals so far this season, Jeon could be the signing to see them stay in the league. A fantastic addition considering her pedigree abroad and at home in Korea.