English Lionesses defender Laura Bassett has signed with Canberra United for Season 10 of the Westfield W-League.
Canberra United can today announce the signing of English International defender Laura Bassett for the 10th season of the Westfield W-League.
Bassett joins Canberra United after a stellar Euros campaign with the English National side, and said she just wants to get started in Canberra.
“I can’t wait,” she said.
“I’m so excited and I am really looking forward to meeting all the staff and players at this ambitious club.”
With pre-season just around the corner the 34-year old defender will be joining her new teammates soon ahead of United’s opening match on the 28th October.
It will be her first ever season in the Westfield W-League, but the former Arsenal and Chelsea defender has heard lots about the league down under.
“I am eager to start training with the team so I can fully immerse myself in the playing philosophy and culture of the club,” Bassett said.
“I have only heard impressive things from players who have played in the W- League; positives such as the competitive fixtures, different playing styles and the players’ commitment and professionalism.”
Bassett will form part of a new look defensive line under new head coach Heather Garriock, that features recently announced goalkeeper Haley Kopmeyer and star Matildas fullback Ellie Carpenter.
New coach Garriock agreed that Bassett will be an integral part of the back line in Season 10.
“Laura will be the backbone to our defence this season,” Garriock said.
“She can either play centre back or holding midfield, and having a solid spine is key for this season.”
Bassett has appeared over 60 times for the English National Team and was an unused substitute last night as the Lionesses began their World Cup qualifying with a 6-0 thrashing of Russia.
That experience will be key this season amongst a side filled with young talent, and Bassett is looking forward to helping her teammates grow throughout the campaign.
“I will gladly be passing on knowledge, experience, advice and all that I can do to support the younger players,” she said.
“I am always looking for opportunities to listen to other players, learn from their experiences and hear their views on how they see the game.”
The defender will soon link up with the squad for the pre-season as the reigning Premiers begin to click into gear ahead of the milestone season.
