Steph had been sought after by many of the top clubs after pushing herself into the full England squad last season with her impressive displays whilst playing for Sunderland.

Steph is a versatile player and has played in various positions including right back, central midfield, right midfield and striker over the past few seasons. She is among the 30 players nervously awaiting the announcement of the World Cup squad next week after being involved in the senior squad since October last year.   

Manager Rick Passmoor commented: " We are delighted to have signed Steph for Leeds United Ladies. We have been long time admirers of her game and have paid particular attention to her throughout the summer.

"I see her as an integral part to our drive and development of the first team as we look to challenge for honours. We are also impressed by her ability and vision to both win, and continue to progress as a player and individual."

Steph added: "I am really looking forward to the season with Leeds. I had been at Sunderland for five years and I was gutted when they got relegated but realised it was also time to move on. I will always look out for their results and will always love the club and want to wish them all the best for this season.

"When I made the decision to move clubs I didn't want to just sign for the first club that approached me; I wanted to take my time and speak to everyone who had expressed an interest in signing me.

"I was honoured to have interest from clubs like Arsenal and Everton. It made the decision so hard, but in the end I had to weigh everything up.

"Leeds have some established Internationals who I can learn from and also have many up and coming talented youngsters in the England Under 19s squad, and quite a few involved at U17s level too - it promising to be a really exciting season."

The final word when to Chairperson and driving force at the club, Mel Vauvelle.

"Everyone at Leeds is absolutely thrilled that Steph has decided to join and we feel privileged that she chose Leeds.

"We gave her time and space after talking to her to make the decision for herself, together with her family, without putting pressure on her; she is still only nineteen and it was big decision for her.

"Things are looking quite exciting for the season ahead with the new management team and new signings but we certainly will not be getting carried away."