Melbourne City FC has signalled its Westfield W-League 2019/20 season intent, re-signing three important players ahead of the upcoming season.
Following the announcement of Westfield Matildas quarter Emily van Egmond, Ellie Carpenter, Emma Checker and Kyah Simon, City is delighted to announce the return of Australia’s first choice goalkeeper, Lydia Williams.
American defender Lauren Barnes will also return to the Club, joining Japanese midfielder Yukari Kinga.
Speaking on City’s latest re-signings, Head Coach Rado Vidosic said he is thrilled to welcome back an important group of core players.
“We’re delighted to welcome back a crucial group of players that have played a significant role for our Club in recent seasons,” Vidosic said.
“There ability to perform at the highest level consistently alongside their individual qualities, both on and off the pitch, is what makes them so important.
“We’re welcoming back three individuals who have a strong winning mentality, who are fierce competitors and a group who will continue to strive towards achieving success,” he added.
“I’m very confident in this squad’s ability and believe that we are building a team that has what it takes to compete for the title this season.”
Lydia Williams returns to Melbourne from Seattle Reign in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), after signing a two-year deal with the Club. The 81-times capped Matildas international, returns to Melbourne following a standout 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup in France. A proven winner, Williams has played a significant role in the Club’s success since her arrival and will be looking to do much of the same in season 2019/20. A player for the big occasion, Williams provides great leadership and guidance from the back of the field.
Fellow Seattle player, Lauren Barnes will also return to City for her third consecutive season at the Club. The American import has been one of City’s most important figures over the past three season, where the 30-year-old has demonstrated her world-class defensive qualities, distribution and leadership. A well-respect figure at the Club, Barnes will be looking to draw upon her recent success in the W-League as City strive towards creating more history.
Former FIFA Women’s World Cup winner Yukari Kinga will join both Williams and Barnes in returning to Melbourne. The versatile midfielder is a consistently strong performer, where she continually utilises her incredible work ethic and football expertise. With experience in the W-League, abroad and on the international stage, Kinga will again provide a wealth of experience to the locker room.
Vidosic’s squad continues their pre-season preparations as they prepare for an important 2019/20 season.
Melbourne City FC’s 2019/20 Westfield W-League squad to date: Lydia Williams, Melissa Barbieri, Lauren Barnes, Emma Checker, Emily Van Egmond, Chelsea Blissett, Sofia Sakalis, Nia Stamatopoulos, Tyla-Jay Vlajnic, Yukari Kinga, Kyah Simon.
